Members of the military present the Avenue of Flags at the Armed Forces Day celebration.
The 2009 Armed Forces Day celebration was held on the grounds of the VA Medical Center on May 16 to recognize the men and women who have served, or are currently serving in the military. Colonel Brian Vognild, South Dakota Air National Guard, provided the keynote address.
Sponsored by the Sioux Falls Area Chamber of Commerce Military and Veterans Affairs Committee, the celebration hosted the Outstanding Achievement Awards. Annually, the committee presents the awards to four reservists and guard members who are selected by their military units for outstanding military performance and commitment to their country and community. Armed Forces Day also hosts the Stars and Stripes Awards which is presented to an area family and business organization.
Congratulations to this year's recipients for the Outstanding Achievement Awards: Sgt. Benjamin Kuhns, U.S. Army Reserve; Command Sgt. Maj. James A. Hoekman, South Dakota Army National Guard; Gunner's Mate First Class Harley C. Hansen, U.S. Naval Reserve; and Master Sgt. Jonathan L. Goering, South Dakota Air National Guard. Congratulations to this year's recipients for the Stars and Stripes Awards: Roselyn Vortherms and Family and the Sioux Falls School District 49-5.
