Let's remember 9-11 and Beyond the Yellow Ribbon

Before I post about the Yellow Ribbon I would like to have a moment of Silence and remember those who lost their lives on that 9-11-01 as well as their families, also to remember all the affects of 9-11 has had on the military. Let us continue to stand behind those who fight to protect us from evil like this again and those who have given their lives for the safety of ours.


Beyond the Yellow Ribbon is for support of military members and their families of all branches of military service, both past and present. Wadena’s support of military families helped inspire the Beyond the Yellow Ribbon program, and now the city is being officially designated as a Yellow Ribbon community. Wadena and several other towns were proclaimed Yellow Ribbon communities and honored in a ceremony at the Detroit Lakes Pavilion Aug. 22, with Gov. Mark Dayton and U.S. Congressman Collin Peterson speaking.

National Guard Sgt. Matthew Nygren, Training NCO working at the Wadena Armory, said Minnesota’s Yellow Ribbon program was started by Adjutant General Larry Shelito and then-Gov. Tim Pawlenty. He added that during a 2004 deployment, Yellow Ribbon founders were impressed by how Wadena and a couple of other communities supported their troops.

The objective of the Yellow Ribbon program, is to establish and sustain a local Yellow Ribbon Network that proactively works together in order to meet the needs of service members and military families.

Karla Richardson of Verndale, veteran and Minnesota Patriot Guard state ride captain, agreed community support in the area is strong. Mayor Wayne Wolden said recognition was given to Wadena for the Beyond the Yellow Ribbon program, which had already been occurring in Wadena.

The proclamation was received by Wolden, Richardson, Evelyn Otto and Diane Leaders. Wadena met the requirements for an action plan template in key areas, including city leadership, public safety, judicial departments, veterans’ organizations, social services, medical providers, faith-based resources, businesses and employers, and a Yellow Ribbon Steering Committee guiding the overall effort. There are over 130 support networks established across Minnesota.

Yellow Ribbon services are not necessarily military-related, and can include mowing a lawn, giving rides and other types of assistance. If you want any more information please contact Yellow Ribbon past or present military members and their family members may contact them about Yellow Ribbon services, and it is confidential.

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