veteran’s corner

Tom Krabbenhoft

I recently traveled to Sioux Falls, South Dakota to hear a speaker. The event was held at the Alliance www.southdakotaalliance.org/. It’s a beautiful building that is a collaborative effort by several veterans groups, twelve in all, the VFW and American Legion being the primary partners.

It’s a destination to behold. They have lunches, dinners, weddings, meetings and concerts with very recognized names. It holds many shops, veterans outreach and business startup areas. There is a large mezzanine with several suites. A play area for kids that can be rented for birthday parties. A nice museum where SD military history is showcased. It even has a shooting range.  Above all it was clean and appeared to be very well managed.  The stage was laid out nicely and centered with a large screen behind it. Truly something not only the Veterans but the people of SD can be very proud of.

Sadly I believe the same thing could not happen here. The veteran organizations I belong to are resistant to change. The old guard does not want to let go. The good old boys club cannot see beyond success of the past.

The speaker was Kristian Paronto, or Tonto. He was one of a handful of people that defended the American Embassy in Benghazi during the terrorist attacks of 9/11/12. A movie called 13 Hours was made about the incident. Tonto verified the accuracy of the movie.

To hear him speak about it firsthand was hypnotic. It left me thinking and reflecting.

Tonto grew up as he states a “normal kid”. His grandfather was a migrant farm worker. He became an Army Ranger and suffered some personal setbacks.

Resilient people cannot be kept down.

Danger always wears the same dress. No matter the person one never knows how they will react. It brings on a hyper sense of awareness. Him telling the tale of running into a burning building to find and save Ambassador Steven’s. He described it as the scariest moment of his life. Despite the grenades, rockets and thousands of rounds going his way. He was truly interesting and I was left in awe.

Also in attendance was Michael John Fitzmaurice. He is South Dakotas last living Medal of Honor recipient. I was afforded the chance to speak to Mr. Fitzmaurice for several minutes. Second time I’ve met a MOH recipient. The humility by these fearless folks is incredible.

Both men would attest they are not heroes or even brave. They were just doing their jobs.

I believe bravery is not a trait but a reaction to a circumstance. We never know how we will react.

Truly a great night with great Americans including Grimmy, Paul, his wife and friends.

Anything veterans related please contact me at 11btwk@gmail.com.