Veteran’s Corner
Tom Krabbenhoft
Greetings, I hope everyone had a great and safe independence day.
Freedom is not free as the saying goes. We as veterans and our families know the sacrifices we make. The support us and especially our families receives is vital. One group that goes unheralded is the local Chamber Of Commerce.
The Fargo Moorhead West Fargo Chamber (FMWF) has been advocates for a vibrant business community. In 2012 The FMWF formed the military affairs committee or MAC. Chamber member businesses can pay a little extra annually, to be a member of The Honor Star program.
The Honor Star program is a way for organizations and individuals to say thank you to military men and women.
One of the ways they do this is the military appreciation night at the Redhawks. I spoke with Brian Shawn head of the Chambers MAC. He said this started in 2014 with 500 tickets given out to veterans and their families, this year giving out 1250 tickets. A free picnic and inflatable games are included. Many military groups participate in the outing quilts of honor, ND National Guard static displays, the Fargo Memorial Honor Guard and all the service groups.
Shawn informed me there is a military swearing in ceremony. This is one of the most memorable moments you’ll ever have in the service. Lee Greenwood appeared in 2018 and 2019 and sang. An annual military flyover tradition and performances from the Navy SEALs and others.
Expectations for the event will continue to grow. Admittedly this year was the first year I attended. I enjoyed myself immensely and met many people and ran into over a dozen others I served with.
Thanks to the FMWF Chamber, their Military Affairs Committee and Brian Shawn. We appreciate you supporting veterans and we are grateful you’ve thought of our families too.
The FM Legion Riders are having their annual ride this weekend coming up. American Legion in Moorhead will be holding a fundraiser on July 22nd. Please check their Facebook for specific times and events.
The National Cemetery is holding an open house in August. If you haven’t seen our cemetery this is a good time to see it. I’ll post more details soon.
Send your veteran-related items to me at 11btwk@gmail.com.