RAPID CITY, S.D. – South Dakota Congressman Dusty Johnson honored local veterans Monday during a commemorative pinning ceremony at American Legion Post 311 in Piedmont.
The event recognized Vietnam War and Cold War-era veterans for their service and sacrifice. Johnson said the ceremony was an opportunity to personally thank veterans and acknowledge that many service members from past generations did not receive the recognition they deserved when they returned home.
Johnson’s office says more than 1,000 veterans across South Dakota have now received commemorative pins through the program.
Among those honored was Lead native and Air Force veteran John Lausser, who served during the Cold War era and expressed gratitude for the recognition. Vietnam-era Air Force veteran Ralph Hollandsworth, who served at Ellsworth Air Force Base, also received a pin and praised South Dakota’s strong support for veterans.
The ceremony concluded with a message of appreciation and thanks for the service of the area’s military veterans.
