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WILLISTON, ND – U.S. Senator Kevin Cramer (R-ND), a Senate Veterans’ Affairs Committee member, participated in a Memorial Day program today, where he delivered the rededication address for the Monument to the Unknown, a monument at Riverview Cemetery in Williston, North Dakota, which is believed to be the nation’s first official monument to the fallen, unknown soldier. It was first erected on May 30, 1919, two years before the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier at Arlington National Cemetery.
“Congratulations to everyone involved in making this rededication happen. It is no surprise to see the community of Williston leading the way in honoring our fallen, unknown service members,” said Senator Cramer. “Rededication ceremonies are an opportunity for us to rededicate not just monuments like the Monument to the Unknown, but also to rededicate ourselves to the principles those monuments represent. Everyone who enjoys the fruits of liberty in this country has something to say, today and every day, to the loved ones of fallen service members: thank you. Your loss is not in vain because we rededicate ourselves to living as free people.”
The Military Affairs Committee-Williston Basin hosted today’s ceremony, which was by presented by American Legion Post 37. The rededication was for a historically accurate reproduction of the original white, wooden obelisk placed in Riverview Cemetery in Williston, North Dakota, over 100 years ago. A U.S. Army Sentinel was among those who placed a wreath in front of it as part of the ceremony, which also included a fly over, rifle salute, rendition of Taps, and invocation.
Senator Cramer’s full remarks can be seen here via the 660 KEYZ News Radio livestream of today’s event.