On the cover:
The honor guard carrying the flag at the Minnesota State Veterans Cemetery in Little Falls on Monday, Sept. 23, 2024, during a ceremony honoring Brainerd soldier Gerald J. Bell, who was killed in action on Bataan during World War II. Steve Kohls / Brainerd Dispatch
• Honoring those lost but never forgotten:
To protect their retreat, two volunteers were sought to set up a machine gun position at the far end of a bridge. They gave their lives so others may live.
• Service Officer finds purpose through helping others:
Crow Wing County Veterans Service Officer Erik Flowers has served his country and continues to serve his community, helping veterans find the resources they need.
• Soldier, father and friend:
Breezy Point veteran helps a daughter learn about the father she never met
• Also in this issue:
Local photo submissions of Brainerd lakes area veterans — past and present.