PIERRE — The South Dakota Department of Veterans Affairs will host a Memorial Day program on May 27. The program will begin at noon at the South Dakota Veterans Cemetery, 25965 477th Ave., in Sioux Falls.

“Memorial Day is an opportunity to pay our respects and to reflect on the high cost of freedom,” said South Dakota Department of Veterans Affairs Secretary Greg Whitlock. “Americans who put their lives on the line to protect our freedoms and our way of life have stories worth telling. It’s on us to tell their stories, to honor their lives, and to offer their families and loved ones our eternal support.”

Keynote speakers include Lt. Gov. Larry Rhoden and CSM (Ret) Brooks Schild, both of whom have lived a life of public service.

Rhoden is South Dakota’s 39th lieutenant governor and is a lifelong rancher, former legislator, dedicated husband and father, and a proven leader with a record of service to South Dakota and our nation. Rhoden served six years in the South Dakota National Guard, carrying on a family legacy of military service that began in the Revolutionary War.

Schild retired from the South Dakota National Guard with over 33 years of service to his country and his state. He had two overseas deployments to Kuwait and Iraq. He also served on the South Dakota Veterans Commission for four years, and taught science for 32 years.

“Memorial Day is the day we pause and honor those that have given so much,” said South Dakota Veterans Cemetery Director Erin Brown. “We hope you can join us in providing the proper remembrance they deserve.”

Attendees are encouraged to bring lawn chairs.