Rapid City SD – Today was a day celebrating our nation’s heroes. Commemorations were held throughout the area, including Rapid City’s parade downtown for Veterans Day.

The Veterans Day ceremony was held at the Hive on Main Street Square. Numerous veterans spoke and the rest of the time was spent connecting with veterans and people in the community over donuts and coffee as they prepared to head out for the parade.

Despite the cold weather, the turnout surprised many people. “They were probably surprised at the amazing turnout that happened here, but also the socialization that took place,” said Pomai Lindenthal, event coordinator for the Main Street Square. I feel like there’s never been a quiet moment in this room. People are eager to meet new people and enjoy the company of other veterans and their families. “They just enjoy this day, remember this day and spend it with their loved ones.”

Former Lieutenant Cornel Jennifer Rollins, one of the Veterans who spoke at the ceremony, spoke about how wonderful the Western South Dakota Veteran community is treated. “This community is so warm and welcoming to veterans. I have been stationed here at Ellsworth Air Force Base twice during my career. And this is a unique place for the military community to overlap. We embraced in public,” Rollins said.

What was clearly on display all day today was the love shown to all veterans. Lindenthal added: “I think the love for this country and the people love being in this community. I think everything is alive and well with the presence of the veterans and the presence of the Black Hills area. There are a lot of different organizations that put on events nowadays. So to come and be a part of it, I think it’s alive and well.” I’m glad they chose it. Also because of the parade. I mean, it’s huge. It’s something that some people have been waiting for. And be very proud to be a part of it.

The parade featured performances by local marching bands and Boy Scout troops, but most importantly, veterans were the stars of the parade. With different organizations representing veterans on their day.

Following the parade, many vets went to the post-1273 VFW for a free lunch. Veterans who served from World War II to the Iraq war.

Lunch was served by local Boy Scouts. The luncheon gives the community an opportunity to connect with and thank local veterans.

VFW Post 1273 Quartermaster Kat Pyka said: “I think it’s very important to remember all the veterans in the community. This is a time when young kids are mixing with World War II Veterans and Korean War Veterans here, and they’re taking more than a day off from school or work. .”

VFW post 1273 is hosting another free hot meal next Sunday – the 17th – featuring winter gear, clothing and hygiene items.