warendsBismarck  (CSi)   Gov. Jack Dalrymple, along with North Dakota’s World War II (WWII) veterans, kicked off  Tuesday, the state’s 70th anniversary observance of the end of WWII by signing a proclamation declaring a victory celebration to honor North Dakota’s heroes who served in the war. The proclamation was signed during a ceremony at the North Dakota Heritage Center in Bismarck.

The program included remarks from Dalrymple; Maj. Gen. David Sprynczynatyk, North Dakota Adjutant General; Vern Fetch, president of the 164th Infantry Association; and WWII veterans who shared their personal experiences from the war. Additional WWII veterans in attendance were also recognized for their service.

“North Dakota has a long, rich legacy of patriotism and military service, and the Second World War was no exception,” said Dalrymple. “More than 60,000 North Dakota men and women served in the U.S. military during World War II, contributing to the historic victory of the Allied Forces. They helped our nation march to victory, defeating tyranny, preserving freedom and changing the course of history.”

Dalrymple’s proclamation declares the “North Dakota WWII Victory Celebration” period to begin Sept. 2, to commemorate the official end of WWII, and continue through

Nov. 11, in honor of Veterans Day. During that period, activities and events have been planned to honor and thank the state’s WWII veterans for their service and sacrifice.

The goal for North Dakota’s 70th anniversary observance is to locate and thank all living WWII veterans in the state. This historic roster will include all WWII veterans from the Army, Army Air Corps, Navy, Marines and Coast Guard, as well as those who served in the Merchant Marines, Nurse Cadet Corps and anyone who participated in home front activities such as “Rosies” or those who supervised bond sales, recycling centers or civil defense.

In addition, a WWII Victory Celebration program and USO-style dance will be held Oct. 10 beginning at 2 p.m. at the World War Memorial Building in Bismarck to honor North Dakota’s WWII veterans. The public is welcome to attend.

Beginning Sept. 2 and continuing through Veterans Day, individuals, organizations and communities across the state are encouraged to recognize their local WWII veterans through various activities, including interviews in their hometown media, victory celebrations and recognition opportunities.

For more information about the North Dakota WWII Victory Celebration or to register for the historic roster, please contact:

Email: NDWWIIVictoryCelebration@outlook.com

Mail: ND WWII Victory Celebration, PO Box 1111, Bismarck, ND 58502-1111

Phone:  701-333-2064 and leave contact information for a return phone call