Dent unveils Veterans memorial

Published 06:00 a.m., August 2, 2009

For The Journal

On Saturday, July 11, two local leaders helped dedicate a new veterans memorial in Dent.  North Dakota Air Force National Guard General Pat Martin described American’s “citizens’ soldiers” who serve their country, but often melt quietly into their civilian lives as “hidden heroes.”  They’re all around us often unrecognized in the work place and in our everyday life.

It was a very rare privilege for the community of Dent to host a general as American Legion Post 148 conducted the ceremony in the city’s park along Highway 108.

The engraving on the slab of granite reads:  All gave some, some gave all….  Dedicated to all past, present and future veterans who have or who will serve their country!!  This memorial represents all branches of the military.

“Veterans are always helping the community quietly pitching in” said General Martin.  He described the Dent Post as a “very close, caring, organization with great teamwork,” as he recognized those who helped bring the Veterans Memorial to reality.  In fact, it is known throughout the state for its outstanding volunteer efforts and growing memberships including the Sons of American Legionaries (S.A.L.)

In addition to a general, Dent was also honored by the presence of Minnesota’s top ranking American Legion official, Commander Tom Conway.  He said we tend to take freedom for granted in our everyday life but with the Dent memorial, we will have a constant reminder that freedom is not free.  It was also noted that Dent didn’t get any federal stimulus money for this memorial.  It was accomplished all by the hard work of veterans and volunteers.

Post 148’s Commander, Don Seifert said the idea originated with some Legion members and the Centennial Park committee.  In fact, the new picnic shelter was also part of the memorial project.  There were several hurdles to overcome including receiving permits from the state and local levels.  Don has committed the last 10 years as local commander.  Post 148 began in 1923 as the Walter Haimerl Post.  Al Fresonke and George Borderling, local Legion members, laid the foundation.  Everett Mostue, a local bricklayer, designed and built the monument.  He said the local Post 148 has done so much for the area, now “I was happy to be able to give something back to you guys for a change.”  Everett made special recognition to the two youngest members of the S.A.L., his two grandsons Wyatt Mostue, 13 months old and Cody Mostue, 17 months old.

A soon-to-be high school senior Cody Schepp, from Barnesville, son of Teri Schepp, a winner of a writing contest promoting patriotism this spring,  read his essay at the Dent program.  “American veterans are the most courageous people I know.  They shaped our world both morally and geographically, said Cody.  “They are true American Heroes.”  His grandparents from Barnesville, Betty and Virgil “Gooch” Tableman, were also present for the festivities.

Other speakers at the dedication included Post 148 Legion Commander Don Seifert, Bill Barbknecht, Underwood Legion member who acted as emcee, Shane Olson S.A.L. 9th District Commander, Post 148 Chaplain Frank Wines and Phil Bellefuille who described the event as a “great day for veterans and a great day for the city of Dent.”  Performing the national anthem, patriotic music selections and taps on his euphonium and trumpet was Russ Kadow.  Dent mayor Perry Coleman summed up the day with his words “we owe veterans a debt that is more than we can ever repay.”  As one great radio talk – show host would say…. “You’re great Americans!”  Lead on!

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