Memorial Day is a profound day of reflection and gratitude, dedicated to honoring the men and women who have made the ultimate sacrifice in service to the United States. The day serves as a powerful reminder of the courage and dedication of military personnel who gave their lives to protect the freedoms and values cherished by the nation. Beyond observance as a federal holiday, Memorial Day is a solemn occasion that underscores the true cost of liberty and the enduring legacy of those who fought for it.
At 11:00 a.m. (MT) on Monday, May 26, the community is invited to attend the annual Memorial Day Program at Dickinson State University’s Stickney Auditorium in May Hall. The event will begin with opening remarks by Dr. Rich Brauhn, Vice Commander of American Legion Post #3, a former Vice President of Academic Affairs at Dickinson State University, and a Vietnam War veteran.
This year’s featured guest speaker is Lori Renee Fisher, a Gold Star Daughter and longtime advocate for veterans and military families. Fisher’s father, Army Warrant Officer John W. Brinkmeyer, a Stark County native, was killed in Vietnam in 1968 and is honored on the Plaque for the Fallen at the American Legion Pavilion.
A veteran herself, Fisher served in the U.S. Air Force as an Allergy/Immunology Specialist and earned multiple commendations, including the Air Force Achievement Medal and the Meritorious Service Medal. For the past 22 years, she has worked as the Group Practice Manager at the Fargo Veterans Affairs Medical Center and played a key role in the establishment of the Veterans Clinic in Dickinson. In 2020, she was nominated for the National Commander’s Award for outstanding service within the Department of Veterans Affairs.
Fisher’s address will focus on the personal and emotional impact of losing a loved one in service to their country. She will reflect on how her own family coped with their loss and emphasize that fallen service members are never forgotten by those left behind, especially on Memorial Day.
The powerful program will also feature patriotic music performed by the N-Compass Chorus, a Prisoner of War/Missing in Action (POW/MIA) presentation, and conclude with Taps, a Rifle Salute by the Honor Guard, and a benediction by Deacon Bob Stockert.
Memorial Day holds deep significance for the families of the fallen. Attendees are encouraged to honor the memory of these heroes by decorating their graves, wearing a poppy, and sharing their stories.
The public is warmly invited to attend and take part in this moving tribute to those who gave everything for our nation. Join us in honoring their memory and showing support for the families who continue to carry their legacy forward.