Commemorating a quarter-century of unwavering service to our veterans, the Veterans Home staged a memorable event reflective of their enduring commitment and dedication to its residents.
Despite inclement weather cancelling the anticipated Stars and Stripes parade, attendees filled the Veterans Home on Saturday, June 24th to partake in the celebratory program.
Fergus Falls Veterans Color Guard
The ceremony was bookended by an impressive Color Guard presentation, while musical interludes provided by the Veterans Home Choir and the renowned Carlisle Band heightened the festive atmosphere.
Chaplain (ILT) Isaiah Bai of the 2nd Battalion, 136th Infantry Regiment, initiated the program with a thoughtful invocation.
This was followed by a warm introduction from Fergus Falls Veterans Home Public Affairs Coordinator, Gary Harris Jr., who eloquently provided a brief backstory for each of the distinguished guests.
The esteemed attendees included MDVA Deputy Commissioner Eric Meittunen, Scott Kvamme from the Fergus Falls City Council Ward 2, and State Senator Jordan Rasmusson.
Adding a touch of sentimentality, Abrey Krebs, the inaugural MDVA employee, delivered a poignant speech recollecting the inception of the veterans home twenty-five years prior.
Chaplain (ILT) Isaiah Bai of the 2nd Battalion, 136th Infantry Regiment
In a tribute to the armed forces, the Veterans Home Fergus Falls Choir performed an engaging Armed Forces medley.
Joyce Lynn Lacey then presented a memorial plaque, graciously accepted by Veterans Home Administrator, Jonathan Stone.
The event further deepened its emotional resonance as the floor was opened to guests who wished to share cherished memories of the Veteran’s Home.
Laughter and even a few tears of joy echoed through the hall as guests recounted their experiences at the podium.
The speakers took turns recounting fond memories and expressing heartfelt gratitude for those who have served the nation and dedicated their lives to caring for our veterans.
The event culminated with a closing prayer by Chaplain(ILT) Isaiah Bai, followed by the formal retrieval of the colors by the Color Guard.
A captivating sing-along, led by the Carlisle Band and echoed by the attendees, centered around the patriotic anthem, “God Bless America.”
Deanna Mounts, a retired MDVA employee, offered closing remarks, encapsulating a celebratory event dedicated to 25 years of remarkable service to the Veterans.
Veterans Home Administrator Jonathan Stone
Veterans Home Administrator Jonathan Stone noted,
“I’m humbled to be the administrator now, and to see past and current employees coming together is just amazing”, “Continuing to be this channel for everyone to come together”, “Anytime we can get together like this it’s a wonderful time”.
The program concluded on a sweet note, with attendees being treated to refreshments, notably including cupcakes adorned with “25th” to commemorate the milestone anniversary.
Scott Kvamme from the Fergus Falls City Council Ward 2
Minnesota State Senator Jordan Rasmusson
MDVA Deputy Commissioner Eric Meittunen
Deanna Mounts – Retired MDVA employee
Joyce Lynn Lacey then presented a memorial plaque
Abrey Krebs, the 1st MDVA employee