Veterans Honored at ND Veterans Cemetery | Video

Alexander Gorney | 5/28/2012

Sgt. Christopher Hanson honored his late father on this Memorial Day.

"My father is a combat veteran of both Vietnam and Desert Storm,” he said. "It`s very special for me to be here."

Hanson was one thousands who honored our nations veterans at the Veteran`s Cemetery in Mandan.

"Without the sacrifices and efforts of veterans for well over 225 years we would not be celebrating America`s independence each year,” said Maj. Gen. David Sprynczynatyk of the North Dakota National Guard.

The sound of trumpets blared into the crowd in honor of the fallen. The Sioux Echo Drum group remembered Native American veterans through song and dance. Many others visited the graves of military family members.

"We have Americans. We have North Dakotans that are in harm`s way today and tomorrow and the next day so for them and their families, they are in our hearts and in our prayers every single day til they are back here with us," said Sen. John Hoeven.

A cannon fired into the distance, flags were raised from half staff, and veterans, from the ones who fought in World War II to those fighting the war on terror, were recognized.

"On this day, wear red poppy`s proudly and whatever else you do to commemorate this day and remember for our fallen men and women in uniform, that the blood of heroes never dies,” said Bismarck State College President and keynote speaker for today’s ceremony, Larry Skogen.

Hanson has spent 16 years in the military and Memorial Day is a significant day for him.

"Memorial Day is a chance to honor all those who have served, anyone who has served in the military, especially for those who have made the ultimate sacrifice defending our country."

It was a sacrifice thousands of veterans made and it is one they will always be remembered for on Memorial Day.

COMMENT ON THIS STORY

BACK TO NEWS | BACK TO BISMARCK STORIES