This past Memorial Day, annual services were held in Wakonda and the surrounding area. The weather was cooperative considering the heavy rainfall the night before. As in past years, the American Legion Gingrich-Dixon Post 13 Legionnaires started their morning at St. Columbkill, known as North Catholic Cemetery at 8:30 am to honor our departed comrades that have served in the Armed Forces. Post Chaplain Don Lyso began each service with reading of the names of veterans laid to rest in each cemetery. He then said a brief prayer followed with a 21-gun salute by the Firing Squad. A 21-gun salute is the highest honor that can be bestowed on a deceased veteran.

From North Catholic we added a stop to our list, (old) North Lodi Cemetery, which was a first in who knows how many years for the Legion to visit. Then on to Pleasant Valley, Bethel Baptist, Lodi Lutheran (South Lodi), St. Patrick’s (South Catholic) and Union Cemeteries. Heading back to Wakonda we stopped at the Wakonda Heritage Manor to honor our local veterans and lastly, a stop at the Veterans Memorial. Shortly after 11:00 am the program commenced at the Legion Hall.

This year we were very fortunate to have Irene native and recently Air Force retired Chief Master Sergeant David Carlson as our guest speaker. CMSgt Carlson was on active duty for 30 years and most recently stationed at Grand Forks Air Force Base, ND as the Command Chief Master Sergeant. Some of Chief Carlson’s educational training includes graduating from the Air Force Non Commissioned Officer Academy and the Air Force Chief MSGT Leadership Course. He holds degrees in Human Resource Management, Criminal Justice, and Occupational Education.
Some of Chief Carlson’s assignments include Air Force Bases in Turkey, Texas, Ellsworth, Mississippi, Colorado, Alaska and, of course, North Dakota. He’s received numerous awards and decorations in his distinguished 30-year career.

This year we also added recognition to our POW/MIA’s by placing a small table front and center of the podium as Chief Carlson lit the candle while I read a script of the meaning of the items placed on the table. This tradition included “Amazing Grace” being played by bagpipes in the background. Many attendees expressed that this particular part of the program was very touching.

Attending the program were two distinguished guests. WWII survivors Gene Dwyer, a survivor of the Pearl Harbor attacks by the Japanese and Orville Oien, a survivor of D-Day, the Allied Invasion of Normandy. It was an honor having these two gentlemen and heroes in our presence this day.

Wakonda native, Kayla Nielsen provided a musical selection for our entertainment as well as leading us in the Star Spangled Banner. Following the program, lunch was provided by the American Legion Auxiliary. Auxiliary Treasurer and Membership Chairman Donna Henriksen estimated that 140 meals were served this year including several veterans from the surroundings areas. She stated that it was a very successful turnout as in previous years.

Long time Wakonda resident and American Legion member, Kenny Peterson received a plaque and certificate recognizing his 60 years as both a member of the Legion and a member of the Rifle Squad. Kenny was quite surprised by this tremendous milestone and well-deserved achievement. He was very thankful for being given these awards.

This year’s Legion detail consisted of 15 members—Commander Michael Hessman, Chaplain Don Lyso, Sergeant at Arms Leo Bohlmann, Clark Christensen and Kennard Petersen made up the Color Guard, the Firing Squad consisted of Darrell Vognild, Tom Larsen, Marlin Reynolds, Rich Andresen, Jim Williams, John Haver, Paul Jensen, Kenny Peterson and Jim Logue while Irene-Wakonda High School student, Taylor Lyso performed “Taps” on trumpet at each location as she’s done for the previous 5-years.

As Commander, I’d like to thank everyone that attended the Legion program and cemetery services as well as those who assisted with the preparation and setup. Community support continues to make this annual program a great success. After the program many attendees expressed how well they enjoyed the program.

This was my last Memorial Day as Commander as I anticipate stepping down from this position next year and allowing another Legion member to bring their fresh ideas and leadership skills to Post 13. It’s been a very enjoyable and sometimes challenging time as Commander and I hope that some of the things we were able to accomplish over the past few years will only continue to be improved upon and allow us to grow in other areas as needed. Thank you for all of your support!

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