Remembering Williston’s Finest On Memorial Day
Memorial Day is a time to think about the brave men and women who died while serving in the U.S. Armed Forces. It is also a time to remember and honor them. Soldiers from Williston, North Dakota, who gave their lives to protect our country are among these heroes.
We all know that Williston is a strong town. Its sons and daughters who answered the call to fight in wars have seen the big effects of war firsthand. Their bravery, loyalty, and love for their country show what it means to be a hero. The North Dakota Department of Veteran's Affairs website shows 2947 soldiers from North Dakota passed away in combat. Afghanistan, Desert Storm, Iraq, Lebanon, Korean War, Panama, Philippine Insurrection, Spanish-American War, Vietnam, WW1, and WW2. Of those 2947 soldiers we remember, there are 89 soldiers from Williams County and 15 from Williston. Let's remember a few together.
Specialist Cody Wentz
Cody Wentz was a member of the National Guard's 141st Engineer Battalion is one such hero from Williston who died in battle. Spc. Wentz enlisted in the Guard in November 2000. He was promoted from private first class to specialist the day before he was killed. His proud parents are Kenny and Joyce Wentz.
Richard Dale Hoveland
Richard Hoveland held the rank of SP4 with the U.S. Army. He passed away on January 31, 1968, in South Vietnam during hostile small-arms gunfire.
Richard Denzil Gill Jr.
Richard Gill held the rank of SP4 with the U.S. Army. He passed away on July 21, 1966, in South Vietnam during hostile conditions and was listed as a ground casualty.
We remember these stories of sacrifice and bravery, and the names and faces of these heroes remain etched in our minds. On Memorial Day in Williston, we gather together to remember the brave soldiers who died for our country. Our local VFW post hosts a service of remembrance at Riverview Cemetary where families, friends, and people from the community come together to honor and pay respects.
The whole state of North Dakota remembers its dead heroes with reverence and respect, not just in the local area. The North Dakota Veterans Cemetery in Mandan is where many of these brave heroes are laid to rest. On Memorial Day, people come to the cemetery to pay their respects and show their gratitude for the sacrifices made by these amazing people.
On Memorial Day, let's remember the brave people from Williston who gave their lives for our country, as well as everyone else who died for our country. Their daring and kindness deserve our thanks. May remembering them make us appreciate the freedoms we have and push us to work for a better, more united future. Don't forget about the Memorial Day program at Riverview Cemetary at 11:00 am on Monday, May 29th.
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