VETERANS DAY AT THE SOUTH DAKOTA STATE FAIR

At the request of the South Dakota Department of Veterans Affairs, Gov. Dennis Daugaard has proclaimed Thursday, Sept. 1, 2016, as Veterans Day at the South Dakota State Fair, calling on all South Dakotans to honor those men and women who fought bravely for our freedoms.

At 10:30 a.m. on Thursday, Sept. 1, the South Dakota State Fair will host a “Salute to Veterans” program. The program will be held on the Northwest Energy Freedom Stage (Recreation Avenue). Brad Richardson, superintendent of the Michael J. Fitzmaurice State Veterans Home, will be one of the speakers and will share the story of the construction of our new State Veterans Home.

“Whether in peace or at war, the important role of our veterans cannot be denied. They are men and women from all walks of life that have one thing in common — a love for this great country,” said Larry Zimmerman, Secretary of the South Dakota Department of Veterans Affairs. “No matter where or when veterans have served, they’ve always served with distinction and their service to this country is a bridge that was built on courage, dedication and patriotism.”

Representatives from the Veterans Service Organizations, the Michael J. Fitzmaurice Veterans Home, as well as county veterans service officers will have an informational booth in the Veterans Building on Flag Avenue. Veterans are encouraged to stop by the booth and learn more about benefits and programs available to them as well.

To show appreciation for their service, the Fair will give all veterans and active military personnel free gate admission on Sept. 1.

South Dakota’s Fallen Heroes Banner exhibit will be displayed in the Midway Corners throughout the duration of the Fair.