Author featured speaker

Marine veteran served 20 months in Vietnam

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BROOKINGS – “Fifteen Minutes Ago.”

Craig Tschetter, a Huron native who now calls Brookings home, tells his tale of combat service in Vietnam and its aftermath in the above titled memoir. He will deliver the message at this year’s Veterans Day observance at 9:30 a.m. Saturday at the Swiftel Center.

This year’s traditional program will include music by the Brookings High School Band under the direction of Ronald Stary; presentation and retirement of the colors by the South Dakota State University Air Force ROTC Arnold Air Society; and several other presentations.

Cdr. Bob Hurd, American Legion Post No. 74, will deliver opening remarks and introductions. Adjutant Alan Kludt will welcome veterans.

Brookings Mayor Keith Corbett will welcome attendees.

On behalf of the Military and Veterans Affairs Committee, Chamber of Commerce, Maj. Rebecca Trygstad, South Dakota Army National Guard, will present annual awards to: Enlisted Soldier of the Year, Pfc. Austin Odland; Non-Commissioned Officer of the Year, Sgt. 1st Class Philip Keller; Officer of the Year, Capt. Tammy Newman; and Civilian Advocate of the Year, Robert “Bob” Hurd.

Following the closing ceremony at the Brookings County Veterans Memorial at 11:11 a.m. Saturday, a potluck lunch will be held at the American Legion Post Home, 1229 Western Ave.

Veterans Day programs will be held at 1 p.m. Saturday at the Neighborhoods at Brookview and United Living Community and at 2 p.m. Sunday and at StoneyBrook Suites and Edgewood Vista.