News Brief -- VA Black Hills Health Care System hosts "Fallen Heroes" banner program

  • Published
  • 28th Bomb Wing Public Affairs
ELLSWORTH AIR FORCE BASE, S.D. --  The first showcasing of the South Dakota Fallen Heroes of Operation Enduring Freedom and Operation Iraqi Freedom banner display is scheduled for 2 p.m. to 5:30 p.m. on Jan. 17, at the Journey Museum in Rapid City, S.D.

The Department of Veterans Affairs Black Hills Health Care system, with a host of local military and veteran partners will sponsor the event. Twenty-eight banners will be on display Jan. 17 - Jan.30 in Rapid City, Hot Springs and Sturgis, S.D. Admission to view the displays is free to the public.

The mission of the "Fallen Heroes" banner program is to honor, respect
and memorialize South Dakota's servicemembers who have made the ultimate sacrifice.

"The banners also serve as a reminder of their sacrifice and the loss felt by the loved ones and fellow warriors they have left behind," said Deb Eiring, VA Black Hills Health Care system voluntary service and public affairs specialist.

The remaining viewings of the "Fallen Heroes" banners are scheduled as follows:
· Jan.18 - 21 -- Rapid City Journey Museum from 10:00 a.m. - 5 p.m.
· Jan. 22 - 23 -- Rapid City Civic Center from 5 p.m. - 10 p.m.
· Jan. 26 -- Hot Springs Mueller Center from 1 p.m. to 6 p.m.
· Jan. 27 -- Hot Springs Mueller Center from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m.
· Jan. 29 -- Sturgis Armory from 10 a.m. - 6 p.m.
· Jan. 30 -- Sturgis Armory from 1 p.m. - 6 p.m.

Questions about the South Dakota Fallen Heroes banner display or the schedule can be addressed to Lori Vosika, VA Black Hills OEF and OIF Program Manager at (605) 745-2000, extension 92176 or Amber Heinert, VA Black Hills OEF and OIF case manager at (605) 745-2000, extension 92327 or visit their Web site at www.blackhills.va.gov.