November 11, a day to honor, respect and show sincere appreciation for our Veterans for our freedoms and safety. Although it was cold and windy at The Highground, guests arrived throughout the day while the names of Wisconsin’s Fallen could be heard throughout the Park.  

At 3 p.m., just over 50 guests gathered in the warmth of the museum garage for the Veterans Day Ceremony. Members of the Thorp VFW Post #9057 held the honors of presenting the colors and providing the rifle salute after the ceremonial reading of the names of those killed in WWII, Korea, Vietnam and the Gulf War. Rylee Courtney, a Neillsville High School student, led everyone in the National Anthem with Pastor Doug Bjerke providing the day’s invocation. Chris Pettis, The Highground Executive Director, welcomed familiar guests as well as a few new comers and shared a message he received from a fellow friend and Veteran. Steven Olikara, a Wisconsin Senate hopeful for 2022 and a first time visitor, offered words of respect and appreciation for all Veterans as well as encouraging thoughts on Veterans transitioning from active duty to civilian life. Steven and three other guests did the honors of reading the ceremonial names of the fallen. 

Kari Porter, our guest speaker, served 23 years with the Wisconsin Army National Guard retired in 2019 after having served two deployments to the Middle East.  She is currently the director and an active counselor for the La Crosse Vet Center. Sharing her experiences as a service member and a Veteran, Kari bridged barriers between wars and focused on the needs of all Veterans and service members. 

Words cannot express the gratitude The Highground has for your service and your sacrifices, making America “the Home of the Free Because of the Brave”. 

For questions or information about the ceremony and other events, please contact Bonnie at events@thehighground.us or call 715-743-4224. Visit thehighground.us for current news and more.

The Highground is located at W7031 Ridge Road, Neillsville WI 54456.