Veteran

U.S. Navy Veteran Receives Mortgage-Free Home in West Fargo

The gift was made possible thanks to a U.S. Bank donation, working alongside Freedom Alliance’s Heroes to Homeowners program.

WEST FARGO, N.D. (KVRR) – Crowds lined the sidewalk on 55th Avenue West in West Fargo, eager to catch a glimpse of the U.S. Navy veteran set to move into his brand-new home. Hospital Corpsman 2nd Class Stuart Fuke hails from Oahu in the state of Hawaii, and his family’s military tradition was one of the main reasons he chose…

Vietnam veteran laid to rest at Fargo National Cemetery

FARGO, N.D. (KVRR) – With snow falling and the wind blowing, people gathered at the Fargo National Cemetery for a veteran’s burial. Merle Schrank was buried with full military honors while numerous veterans and community members made their way out there and braved the elements. “I am always in shock to see so many people come out for unclaimed veterans,…

Wahpeton veteran receives nine medals five decades after being discharged

WAHPETON, N.D. (KVRR) – A Wahpeton Vietnam veteran is given nine military awards he earned decades after serving in the Navy. Congressman Kelly Armstrong presented Seaman Al Collins the Purple Heart, Navy and Marine Corps Achievement Medal Combat V, Navy Unit Commendation, Meritorious Unit Commendation, National Defense Service Medal, Armed Forces Expeditionary Medal – Korea, Vietnam Service Medal One Silver…

Moorhead veteran gets surprised for 100th birthday with drive-by celebration

MOORHEAD, Minn. (KVRR) — Family, friends and even strangers came together Saturday afternoon to celebrate the 100th birthday of a U.S. Navy veteran from Moorhead. Reflecting on previous birthdays, Martin Pelkey says there isn’t one in particular that stands out. “It’s been one right after the other,” he laughed. Until now, that is. With tears in his eyes, Pelkey reluctantly…

Veteran, Sanford AirMed pilot gifted Quilt of Valor for his service

FARGO, N.D. (KVRR) – A North Dakota veteran who’s now a Sanford AirMed pilot received a gift embodying comfort and gratitude Tuesday evening. With his newly gifted Quilt of Valor draped around his neck, Chad Erickson said there’s one simple word to describe how he’s feeling: “I’m feeling honored.” That’s exactly what those with the Quilts of Valor Foundation strive…

West Fargo VFW’s Veterans Day program honors military veterans

The program features patriotic songs, memorial salutes and flag-raising

WEST FARGO, N.D.- West Fargo’s VFW put on its annual Veteran’s Day program at the POW MIA Plaza on Sheyenne Street. It started by the VFW’s Color Guard and Boy Scouts Troop 232. After flag raising, the group came inside the VFW building for the ceremony. It included speakers, rifle volley salute by the VFW Honor Guard and the playing…

Former combat medic receives free vehicle, “It doesn’t feel real”

Guzman and her family received a 2018 Dodge Journey

GRAND FORKS, N.D.- A Crookston veteran receives a car as a way to relieve some financial stress. U.S National Guard Staff Sergeant Crystal Guzman initially enlisted in the military in 1996 for the educational benefits. After the attack on America, Guzman soon realized she was there for a bigger purpose. “9/11 happened and I got serious about what I was…