MSU plans rededication, tree planting at Memorial Day event

“It is fitting that on the centennial of the end of World War I that MSU remember two of its students, Henry Finn and James Otis Cooper, who made the ultimate sacrifice in service to their country. It is fitting too to remember all the students, faculty, and staff, who served, in whatever capacity, to support the war effort and, in the words of President Wilson, ‘make the world safe for democracy.’”
Joseph Jastrzembski, Minot State history professor

MINOT, N.D. – Minot State University will plant two new elm trees on campus and rededicate MSU’s World War I memorial in honor of Minot Normal School students Henry Finn and James Otis Cooper who gave their lives to the war effort as a part of the university’s 2018 Memorial Day Campus event.

The ceremony is scheduled for Friday, May 25, beginning at 11:30 a.m. The ceremony will start indoor at Swain Hall and move outside for the ceremonial tree planting in the grassy area between Swain Hall and the Gordon B. Olson Library.

At a future date, a memorial bench will be added in honor of all of the students, faculty, and staff who supported America in the Great War.

“It is our honor to remember the many brave men and women who have given their lives throughout the history of our nation on Memorial Day,” said MSU Veteran Services Director Andy Heitkamp. “Join us and uphold the tradition as we pay tribute to two former Minot State University students who made the ultimate sacrifice during World War I to protect us from harm and help provide the freedoms we still enjoy today.”

Along with the ceremonial tree planting, the event will feature addresses by North Dakota Congressman Rep. Kevin Cramer, Sen. John Hoeven’s Regional Director Sally Johnson, MSU President Steven Shirley, Minot Mayor Chuck Barney, Brig. Gen. Bob Fode, MSU Campus Pastor Anna Dykeman, and Minot State history professor Dr. Joseph Jastrzembski.

Jastrzembski will give a presentation and rededicate the World War I memorial to conclude the ceremony.

“It is fitting that on the centennial of the end of World War I that MSU remember two of its students, Henry Finn and James Otis Cooper, who made the ultimate sacrifice in service to their country,” Jastrzembski said. “It is fitting too to remember all the students, faculty, and staff, who served, in whatever capacity, to support the war effort and, in the words of President Wilson, ‘make the world safe for democracy.’”

Members of the Minot American Legion Post 26 Color/Honor Guard will present the colors and the Post 26 Trumpeter will play “Taps.”

About Minot State University
Minot State University is a public university dedicated to excellence in education, scholarship, and community engagement achieved through rigorous academic experiences, active learning environments, commitment to public service, and a vibrant campus life.

Published: 05/18/18   


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