Minnesota National Guard Honorees to be Memorialized
MEDIA ADVISORY: For Immediate Release
September 27, 2024
LITTLE FALLS, Minn. – This Sunday, the Minnesota National Guard will induct thirteen retired members into this year’s Cout of Honor at Camp Ripley near Little Falls, Minnesota.
Over 530 inductees are presently memorialized and honored for their heroism, outstanding professionalism, and service to both the military and their community. Each inductee served as a
member of the Minnesota Army National Guard or a civilian employee of the Minnesota Department of Military Affairs.
“Significant pride is inspired by the Court of Honor each year,” said Memorialization Board President Maj. Gen. (Ret.) Neal Loidolt. “Our inductee’s honorable contributions are the strength of the Minnesota National Guard. It is an honor to instill their legacy for future generations.”
This year’s inductees include:
Brig. Gen. (Ret.) Ross S. Fortier of Detroit Lakes, Minnesota
Brig. Gen. (Ret.) Kevin S. Gerdes of Mahtomedi, Minnesota
Col. (Ret.) Larry Herke of Sauk Centre, Minnesota
Col. (Ret.) William A. Hose of Alamo, Texas
Col. (Ret.) Chad M. Sackett of Little Falls, Minnesota
Col. (Ret.) Mark G. Wiens of Lake Elmo, Minnesota
Chief Warrant Officer 5 (Ret.) of Elk Park, North Carolina
Command Sgt. Maj. (Ret.) Erik R. Arne of new London, Minnesota
Command Sgt. Maj. (Ret.) Robert L. Klinkner of North Mankato, Minnesota
Command Sgt. Maj. (Ret.) John M. Lepowsky of Sauk Centre, Minnesota
Command Sgt. Maj. (Ret.) Michael P. Worden of Brainerd, Minnesota
1st Sgt. (Ret.) Virgil D. Cochran of Hastings, Minnesota
DMA Civilian (Ret.) Mrs. Mari E Erickson of Valley Springs, South Dakota
Memorialization began in 1933 as stated in General Order #5, dated May 26, 1933, “As a perpetual monument in memory of a grateful State and Nation, terrain features on the Camp Ripley Military Reservation, Little Falls, MN, are at this moment named in honor of Minnesota citizens, now deceased, = who served honorably in our armed forces during time of war.” A total of 159 individuals were honored at that time.
In 2009, the Memorialization Board added a “Special Recognition” segment to their annual Court of Honor Induction Ceremony to recognize past Service Members for their sacrifices, bravery, and historical significance to our organization with a Special Recognition.
– About the Minnesota National Guard –
Established in 1856 and headquartered in St. Paul, the Minnesota National Guard has more than 13,000 Soldiers and Airmen who serve in 58 communities across the state. The Citizen-Soldiers and Airmen of the Minnesota National Guard are ‘Always Ready’ to fight the nation’s wars, protect the country, respond to state emergencies, and contribute to local communities. For more information about the Minnesota National Guard, visit https://MinnesotaNationalGuard.ng.mil.