veteran’s corner

Tom Krabbenhoft

The CVMA 42-2 (Combat Veterans Motorcycle Association) this past Saturday presented a check for almost $14,000 to PADs (Patriot Assistant Dogs). This DL based organization pairs mostly rescue dogs with Veterans that need a service dog. These dogs are trained and provided free to Veterans that need them. Great job CVMA 42-2!

The FM Legion Riders along with some wonderful volunteers recently packed 57 care packages. These care packages will go to our Minnesota guard troops overseas. This is a large undertaking. Customs forms, weighing and packing is done for each package, shipping alone was almost $1,100. We cannot thank Sarah Knutson and Dawn Iverson and their establishments J&S Felton Bar and The Outback Saloon in Georgetown enough. They collected goods and raised funds for us. Plus they brought an army of volunteers with them when packing day arrived. A shout out to Dee at Specks Bar for the support. The folks at the Garden of Healing (more to follow on this) and some special guests troops from the Minnesota guard that came to help as well. Hundreds of our local troops will benefit with these packages.

This Saturday October 2nd, 3pm at the Mainline Bar and Grill in Downer along with Veritas Cranes are holding a fundraiser. They have a crane that has been converted into a cooking station. They will be doing a seafood boil with all the fixings. Hamburgers for the less adventurous will be available too. Shawn and Kyle from October Road will be playing music from 3:30-7. Meat raffles and pumpkin painting for the kids is being offered. This is for the entire family. The honor guard will present the colors at the 3pm kickoff. Proceeds go to the local honor guard. Sounds like a great time for all.

The local honor guard is kicking off a HUGE effort to raise funds. The funds will go towards building a much needed shelter at the Fargo National Cemetery. Currently there is no place there for family, friends, clergy to meet out of the elements before or after a service. The honor guard itself warms itself and relies on a large van for shelter during all weather.

I apologize for not having a column prepared last week as I was knocked down with Covid. I received a couple of inquiries as to my absence, thanks for your thoughts they are appreciated. No I was not vaccinated. I may soon write about all the vaccines I’ve personally received in the line of duty and what the average military members to this day receive for vaccines. It’s truly astounding.

Veteran of the week or story ideas, comments questions please email me at 11btwk@gmail.com.