The last words of the Pledge of Allegiance rang in the ears of the community members as the sun shone brightly at the Memorial Day event at Soo Line Park on May 29^th.  Memorial Day was declared a federal holiday by Congress in 1971, as a day to honor all Americans who died while serving in the military. Today it is signified with parades, speeches, and other memorable events.  VFW Quarter Master and American Legion Victory Post 112 Commander Bruce Wozniak welcomed those in attendance calling on them to support their Veterans. “Let us renew our pledge of loyalty to our country and this flag.”

Adjutant Ed Staib of the American Legion in Stanley spoke before the sizable crowd of the duty of Americans to honor those who have served before us.  “Fellow Americans, we do not forget. Whether it’s an hour ago or a century ago. We remember. It’s up to us to honor them,” he said. “We can ensure the memories and sacrifices of these heroes are not in vain.”

Service Veteran and State Representative Karen Hurd of the 68^th District addressed the crowd, speaking of her time serving under the command of General Norman Schwarzkopf. She mentioned the need to be able to switch your battle plan as events change and unfold. “Change your battle plan and change what your eyes are set on,” she began. “Look around and see if you can do it a different way and you may be successful,” Hurd added. Speaking of the fallen Veterans, she added, “Today I am here to tell you that every fallen soldier has been successful in his or her battle plan. We are the living proof that their plan was successful. We sit here today. We are alive. We are free. We breathe the free air of the United States of America.” She ended, “May God bless them and may God bless America!”

Stephanie Niedzwiecki, whose husband Ben Niedzwiecki is an Army Veteran currently in the American Legion and the VFW, attended the Memorial Event in Stanley with her three children, ages 6,2, and 4 months and felt it was important bring them to honor the fallen Veterans. “It’s important to teach the children to be respectful and honor the men and women who served and died for the country,” Niedzwiecki remarks.

 Veterans from the VFW and American Legion ended with a twenty-one-gun salute, which is the highest honor rendered as young and old in attendance joined together singing God Bless America, showing their loyalty to their country and their gratitude for those who served and sacrificed so much.