As part of Month of the Military Child in April, Red Wing High School students were honored with a special Purple Up event April 25.
The Hiawatha Valley Family Beyond the Yellow Ribbon Program and the American Legion #54 Auxiliary hosted a pizza luncheon to extend their gratitude to military families. The event reflects the organizations’ commitment to supporting military families and fostering a strong community bond.
Purple, a blend of service branch colors, symbolizes unity and resilience. It’s a representation of shared experiences and support for one another – plus it holds special significance as Red Wing High School’s school color.
Students were greeted with warmth and appreciation as they arrived, along with a showing of purple. Kristin Bray and Ruth Beyers spearheaded the initiative and Beyers had a personal connection.
“This event is a great way to connect military youth at the high school. It was personally special for me as a mom to an active-duty Marine, plus to create a place for my 10th-grade daughter to meet others who understand the journey that comes with having a loved one who serves our country,” Beyers said.
Liberty’s Restaurant owner Doug Noreen delivered pizzas and shared his own story. His father, Lee, served in the Minnesota Army National Guard and he was at his father’s reenlistment ceremony when it was interrupted to announce that President John F. Kennedy had been shot.
Cindy Lohman, president of the American Legion Post #54 Auxiliary, expressed her gratitude, emphasizing the importance of supporting military children. She said she hopes it can become an annual event at all of Red Wing’s schools. Greg Cady, vice president of Beyond the Yellow Ribbon and a U.S. Navy retiree, also highlighted the significance of the luncheon and said they’re committed to expanding the support network in the Red Wing community.
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