Main menu:
Special Interests provide detailed information for items mentioned in our website and have direct links from those items. You will also find other articles which might be of interest to you as well. You may access these articles by pointing to "Special Interests" in the main menu and clicking on the article of interest or by clicking on the title listed below.
Voice of Democracy Essay WinnerLocal Fillmore Central student, Siri Corson placed second in the nation with Voice of Democracy audio essay program held by the VFW each year.This year’s Voice of Democracy theme was “Why is the veteran important?” Siri had grown up hearing stories of how her great-grandfather, Manford “Stub” Corson had fought bravely in WWII and, against all odds, had survived to come back to Minnesota and raise a family.
The reality of a future veterans home in Preston is the result of years of planning by local officials and volunteers. The home will have three households of 18 residents each. There is a shared courtyard for each household. There is a public gathering space in the center. An area will be created for families to come visit and for residents to socialize or play cards. Every one of the 54 residents will have a private room and private bathroom.
POW-MIA Table SettingThe Missing Man Table, also known as the Fallen Comrade Table, is a semi-official place of honor in some dining facilities of the US armed forces in memory of fallen, missing in action, or prisoner of war military service-members. The table serves as the focal point of ceremonial remembrance, originally growing out of US concern of the Vietnam War POW/MIAs. This article explains each item placed on the table.
The Military Child’s Table Setting Ceremony is a unique program to involve Auxiliary Junior members and younger Sons of The American Legion to honor the sacrifices of their military child friends and classmates. The ceremony is inspired by the POW/MIA remembrance table ceremony.
History of TapsOf all the military bugle calls, none is so easily recognized or more apt to render emotion than Taps. This is the story of the origin of "Taps".
The Meaning of the Flag-Draped CoffinHave you ever noticed that the honor guard pays meticulous attention to correctly folding the United States of America Flag 13 times? You probably thought it was to symbolize the original 13 colonies, but we learn something new every day! This article explains how to understand the flag that is laid upon the casket and is surrendered to so many widows and widowers.
POW-MIA Flag OriginThe POW/MIA flag symbolizes the United States’ resolve to never forget POWs or those who served their country in conflicts and are still missing. This article provides what led to the design of the POW/MIA flag and an explanation of it design.
How to Properly Dispose of an American Flag
While it is not illegal, much of the younger generation does not realize the disrespect associated with throwing away an American flag. Or maybe you knew you shouldn’t toss it in the garbage, but didn’t know any other way to get rid of it. Well, we are here to tell you how to properly dispose of an American flag.
How many steps does the guard take during his walk across the Tomb of the Unknowns? How long does he hesitate after his about face to begin his return walk and why? Why are his gloves wet? Does he carry his rifle on the same shoulder all the time and if not, why not? How often are the guards changed? What are the physical traits and other requirements for a person to apply for guard duty at the tomb?
While visiting some cemeteries you may notice that headstones marking those who gave their life while serving in America’s military graves have coins on them, left by previous visitors to the grave. Discover the distinct meanings depending on the denomination of coin.
Just in case some of you young whippersnappers (& some older ones) didn't know this. It's easy to check out, if you don't believe it. Be sure and show it to your family and friends. They need a little history lesson on what's what and it doesn't matter whether you are Democrat or Republican. Facts are Facts.
Honor FlightFreedom Honor Flight is a La Crosse-based organization founded in April of 2008 and has expanded its service to serve Rochester, Minnesota area veterans. Their goal is simple: to fly our veterans to Washington D.C. to visit the memorials that stand in their honor. Freedom Honor Flight provides this trip free to veterans as a tribute for their service. A trip which is beyond the reach of many veterans due to cost and physical limitations.
Return of the SwordA must read ... The story of "One man's souvenir, another man's heirloom". Orval Amdahl of Lanesboro, MN Amdahl probably never realized the World War II souvenir samurai sword he had been caring for over 68 years was in preparation to present it to another man as a cherished family heirloom. This article details how he came in possession of the sword, his care of the sword, his research, and finally the return of the the sword.
Veteran Tickets Foundation
Veteran Tickets Foundation teams up with major sports teams, leagues, promoters, organizations, venues and ticket holders to provide free and discounted tickets to the more than 21 million military and veterans. Currently serving military, honorably discharged veterans from all branches of service, and family of those Killed In Action are eligible. VetTixer's accounts are active once we verify service status. Tickets are either distributed directly to military bases or claimed through our website.