Veteran’s Corner

Tom Krabbenhoft

I hope everyone had a great Christmas and New Years. This time of year is one for reflection and looking ahead. 2024 was a very good year for Veterans in this area. In no particular order I’d like to highlight and says thanks. I’ll be writing more at length about many of these in the coming year.
Alana Christensen, aka The Bison Lady- Alana for many years now has procured Bison event (mostly football) tickets and redistributed to Veterans. These tickets can be difficult to get and requires time and effort on her part.
Quilts of Valor and Red River Quilters- This group of dynamic ladies makes quilts and gives them to Veterans. They have a nomination process. They seek to cover and comfort Veterans touched by war with a handmade quilt.
Porter Creek Hardwood Grill- On every Veterans Day Porter Creek opens their doors, they offer free meals to Veterans. I have a small group that goes every year. We see countless people we’ve served with. I’ve been eager to find out just how big this is.
Red River Valley Fair- For several years they have hosted a “Hometown Heroes” night. They have discounts Veterans can take advantage of. Also a presentation highlighting outstanding Veterans. This year Hairball took to the stage for a free concert. Hairball deserves mention for not only honoring Veterans this night but all year.
The FMWF Chamber, D-S Beverages, The Redhawks and others. Every year these groups sponsor a military appreciation night. The entire stadium is devoted to this event. A free picnic, presentation of quilts and of course a ball game. All this at zero cost to Veterans.
The Coffee Club Radio Show- Every Friday morning time is devoted on their show to different Veterans groups/causes. They are part of the Flag Family Radio. Every Flag Day they hold a celebration; there is prize giveaways and free lunch for Veterans.
Fix It Forward Ministry- They repair and give out cars to those in need for free. This Spring I ran into Matt Carlson and asked if he had a wheelchair accessible vehicle that needed a home, Matt said they did. I explained this wonderful couple had a mishap and the wife ended up in a wheelchair. The husband is a Veteran. Matt gave the name of one of his folks to call. Within 10 days they had in possession a van that was handicap accessible. Truly incredible to change lives in that short of time. Fix It Forward Ministry does it all year long. Special thanks to Travis Hopkins who works for Fix It Forward, he has been emcee for many causes and he has made his Radio Show accessible for Veterans causes.
Thanks to The Extra newspaper and to 702 Communications for sponsoring this column all year.

Send your veteran-related items to me at 11btwk@gmail.com.