Brainerd High School Celebrates Veterans Day with Honoring Ceremonies

The Veterans Day ceremony at Brainerd High School brought together community members to honor those who have served in the military. The event featured keynote speaker Lt. Col. Stephen Heinz, a U.S. Army veteran from Little Falls, who completed two tours in Iraq and Afghanistan. Heinz’s address focused on the importance of service, both within the military and in local communities.

Emphasizing Community Service

Heinz encouraged attendees to find their unique ways to serve, stating, “You’ve got to find your own way to serve. It doesn’t have to be the military; it can be in the community — fire department, a police person, a teacher, volunteer at your local shelter.” He highlighted the significance of understanding and appreciating what it means to be an American who serves.

In a heartfelt moment, Heinz urged those with veteran family members to reach out, express gratitude, and invite them to share their stories. “When the veterans are gone, their stories are gone, but the memories will never be gone if you ask,” he said. This sentiment underscored the importance of preserving the narratives of those who served.

Reflecting on his own experiences, Heinz recalled his youth when Veterans Day ceremonies were scarce. He paid tribute to Vietnam veterans, including his father, who faced challenges upon returning home. He invited all Vietnam veterans present to stand and receive the recognition they deserved, allowing the audience to express their appreciation through applause.

Quilts of Honor and Lasting Gratitude

Heinz concluded his address with a reading of the poem “It is the Soldier” by Charles M. Province. He encouraged attendees to contemplate their contributions to their communities and the nation, leaving them with a message of empowerment: “Never doubt yourself, as your own limitations are those you set upon yourself.”

As part of the ceremony, Heinz and nine other local veterans received Quilts of Honor as tokens of appreciation and remembrance for their service. Among those honored were Mathew Avery, Lloyd Bohler, Michael DeRosier, Dennis Grieser, Benton Murdock, Fred Nygaard, Mark Skinner, Gene Teufert, and Clinton Wheeler.

During the ceremony, Ann Hunter, representing the local Quilts of Honor chapter, emphasized the significance of each quilt. “More than just a blanket, the quilts symbolize warmth, comfort, and community recognition of your great service and sacrifice,” Hunter stated. She encouraged veterans to embrace the quilts as a reminder of the nation’s gratitude for their sacrifices and the challenges they faced while serving.

The event showcased not only the importance of honoring veterans but also the role of community in supporting those who have dedicated their lives to service. The heartfelt messages and gestures of appreciation resonated with attendees, leaving a lasting impact on all who participated.