On November 12th, a pancake breakfast was held at the Community Center in Wanamingo from 7am to 9am. Pancakes, scrambled eggs, sausage, orange juice and coffee was served to members of the community and their families as a fundraiser for veterans programs in Goodhue County and select partnerships in Minnesota. This group of men served in all branches of the military and maintain their commitment to veterans programs and services in the area.
Servicemen from Wanamingo, Mazeppa,, Zumbrota and Kenyon get together and pay tribute to men and women who served our country by doing Honor Guard services for their funerals in Goodhue County. Several members are attached to the Minnesota State Veterans Cemetery rifle squad in Preston, MN.
The original Honor Guard began in Washington D.C. in 1948 when Headquarters Command, U.S. Airforce, directed the creation of an elite ceremonial unit. They were to perform various ceremonies in communities all over the world to honor fallen veterans. This assignment still continues to this day, showcasing drill performances at public and military venues to recruit, retain and inspire future airmen.
The Wanamingo Veterans Honor Guard was established in 2007 by members of the local VFW for veterans from all branches of the military. They meet monthly (second Tuesday’s) at the Wanamingo Community Center to discuss upcoming funeral assignments, local events and fundraisers. Proceeds from the fundraisers go toward the Veterans Memorial maintenance, located at Memorial Baseball Park off 3rd Ave and local veterans programs such as calling cards for military personnel stationed overseas (Project Uplink), fishing with veterans program, USO/Armed Forces Center at the airport, grocery gift cards for local churches to distribute, youth and highschool club programs, and the veterans home in Hastings.
You may see them carrying flags that honor those who serve, marching in local parades. Or perhaps you will find them doing various duties in the communities they belong to. Being a daughter of a Marine, I was able to experience first hand the love these folks have for their community, and participating in ongoing events, honoring service people everywhere.
According to the Unit Commander Eric Dierks, they are always looking to welcome new members to join in the community activities. If you are a veteran and looking for an opportunity to serve our area and make new friends, please contact your local chapter, and find out what you can do to preserve your commitment to your country, and enjoy the comradery of being once again part of a community of those who serve.
All of us at the Wanamingo Messenger wish to thank all of our veterans for their service, both during their military tenure, and now, as they serve others.
