Veterans Honor Guard of Spearfish Receives Acts of Excellence Award From the South Dakota Hall of Fame
The South Dakota Hall of Fame recognized the Veterans Honor Guard of Spearfish, South Dakota with a 2023 Act of Excellence Award celebrating the stellar work of the group. This past year, the Guard provided honors at 85 funerals, and honors at an additional 28 events. The Guard provides Memorial Day Services to 5 area cemeteries on Memorial Day. Total volunteer hours for the group this past year equaled 1,945.
The Spearfish Honor Guard currently has 18 active members. Pictured, front row, left to right: Dan Carlstrom, Jack French, Ron Gibson, Pete Larson, Spearfish Honor Guard Commander Tim Wetz, Doug Henwood, Assistant Honor Guard Commander Larry Haglund, George Ashmore, and Skip Johnson. Back row, left to right: Marvin Freidt, Randy Lyons, Michael Schneringer, Gary Dettman, Arne Koski, Kevin Klunder, Joe Miller, and Patrick Lewellen. Joining the group photo in the back row was American Legion State Commander Doug Feltman and SD Hall of Fame CEO Laurie Becvar. It was noted that Mr. Arne Koski is 94 years old and fully active with the Honor Guard. Honor Guard member not in attendance is Carol Howitz who is working in Saudia Arabia this year.
The Spearfish Honor Guard has been providing services 5 days per week and at times, multiple times per day at the Black Hills National Cemetery and at other places, rain or shine. They provide Honor Detail at the funerals of veterans to show respect, honor, and appreciation. The Detail includes flag bearers, rifle squad, and a bugler.
The South Dakota Hall of Fame is 501c3 organization designed to Honor, Inspire, and Educate. The Hall’s mission is to Champion a Culture of Excellence and the SD Hall of Fame lives out its mission through its programming, including the Acts of Excellence Program. Twelve organizations or individuals have been chosen for their Acts of Excellence in 2023.
FOR MORE INFORMATION:
Laurie Becvar, Ed.D., M.A.
CEO, South Dakota Hall of Fame
605-682-4239
lbecvar@sdhalloffame.org