Traditional Memorial Day Ceremony

The Northland Vietnam Veterans Association is inviting veterans, veteran’s families, and the public to participate in honoring the area men and women who have given the ultimate sacrifice in the service of our great nation.

The ceremony will be held on Traditional Memorial Day (Saturday, May 30th, 2026) at 6 PM, at the Northland Vietnam Veterans Memorial on the Lakewalk. The Northland Vietnam Veterans Association has been honoring our 137 northland brothers (with the addition of Pfc. Rory T. Haran, US Marine Corps, of Proctor in 2025), whose names are inscribed on the Wall, since the dedication of the Memorial on Memorial Day 1992.

Presiding Officer of the ceremony is Dwight Nelson (U.S. Navy), Past President of the Northland Vietnam Veterans Association and designer of the Northland Vietnam Veterans Memorial. Special recognition will be give to Pfc. Rory T. Hara as he is now reunited with his hometown brothers.

Main Speaker will be Anthony Orman (US Air Force), Duluth Elks Lodge 133’s, Exalted Ruler. A 1967 Graduate of Proctor High School, entered active duty in 1970 serving overseas, attended Saint Scholastica graduating in 1973, wife is Mary, worked as business representative of public service unions, and member of Duluth Elks Lodge 133, David Wisted-Zenith City American Legion Post 28, the Northland Vietnam Veterans Association, and Disabled American Veterans Chapter 6.

The Blessings to be given by Father John Petrich.

The Color Guard will be provided by the Northland Vietnam Veterans Color Guard; Unit Captain Ralph Talerico (U.S. Army).

Military Honors to our fallen will be given by the Duluth Honor Guard.

Ceremonial arrangements will be performed by Bagpiper Kerry Welsh (US Army), and acoustic compositions will be played by Mark Rubin and Anthony Rubin.

For more information you may contact the Northland Vietnam Veterans Association Secretary, Dwight Nelson (US Navy), by phone at 218-206-4597 or via email at: deac805@gmail.com