Veteran’s Day Celebration held at RLCC High November 11th

Monday, November 11th is an important day in America’s history. Once know as Armistice Day, Veteran’s Day is a day to honor and remember the veteran’s for their selfless act to keep us safe and free.

The Oklee Veteran’s Day was held at Oklee’s RLCC High School gymnasium. Commander Rick Dulka welcomed everyone who attended the event after the Colors were presented by the Oklee American Legion Post #159’s Color Guard. 

The invocation was given by Chaplin Don Stenberg. A poem  titled “The Chosen One,” written by Brian Longmire was read by Adrianne Jones, a RLCC student.

Commander Dulka then introduced the speaker, Commander Chad Tabatt. Tabatt serves in the US Navy Reserves. He is currently the officer in charge of Bremerton Detachment Q Naval Hospital. He also works for Sanford Health in Thief River Falls as a Physical Therapist.

Tabatt’s message was the importance of recognizing and treating veterans with respect and honor for they have given  much to the United States by serving their country, whether in an overseas position or at home. They have fought for our freedom, some have died while serving and others made it back home. 

His sons encouraged him to get veteran plates for his car and he really didn’t feel the need to have them but since his boys asked, he did. He was surprised when someone saw the plates on his car and they thanked him for his service. He didn’t expect the feeling of gratitude and was overwhelmed by the feeling. 

He went on to talk about the Honor Flights where they bring veterans to WWII memorials in the USA or overseas and how one veteran was thanked and he broke down. It was the first time he had ever been thanked for his service. It is important to thank those that have served their country to protect our freedoms.

After Tabatt spoke, a poem was read by Jayden Iverson, a RLCC student. The poem was titled “Honor Our Military.”

Shirley Dessellier, an Auxiliary member presented a Quilt of Valor to Wallace Nelson for his service to the country. The quilt was made by the Thief River Falls Quilting Club. 

Elmer Hanson was also designated to receive a Quilt of Valor but was unable to attend the ceremony. It will be given to him at a later date.

A moment of silence was held in remembrance of our fallen veterans, Taps was played by RLCC trumpet player, Noah Hanson. 

Afterwards, the Oklee American Legion Auxiliary served coffee and rolls at the hall.