HONORING OUR VETERANS

11th Annual Veterans Day Barbecue

A Community’s Commitment to Our Veterans

“Each year, we set this day aside all across the country to celebrate and pay tribute to America’s Veterans for their devotion, patriotism, selfless service and sacrifice on behalf of us all. Their loyalty to our country, and their great courage, have made us what we are today — and what we’ve been for more than two centuries: the land of the free and the home of the brave . . . a beacon of hope in an increasingly complex world.” Lieutenant Colonel (Retired), Brad L. Doboszenski

Minnesota Wire, for the 11th year, along with numerous community sponsors, honored local veterans with a Veterans Day Barbecue at their Eau Claire, Wisconsin facility. Everyone was welcome, and the turnout for the event demonstrated the community’s commitment to caring for and honoring those who have served.

Honoring Our Veterans

November 12, 2018

Brian Wagner, Director of New Market Development at Minnesota Wire, first conceived the program eleven years ago. Brian’s father, Fred Wagner, the founder of Minnesota Wire, was a proud veteran. Brian wanted to honor local veterans. He envisioned a barbecue where veterans, their families, and community members could share memories and support in a relaxed atmosphere. The event has grown in attendees as well as sponsors each year.

Brian Wagner

Chip Laingen, a 21-year U.S. Navy Veteran, aviator, and commanding officer, opened the ceremony.

“We should take the time to remember that we’re enjoying a wonderful, warm gathering here, complete with delicious barbecue . . . but the reason we’re here at all is because of those standing the watch around the globe — on cold bridge wings, inside hot vehicles and flying long missions.” Chip Laingen

Paul Wagner greets one of the attendees who arrived in full dress uniform—pride on display.

Paul Wagner and and Lieutenant Colonel (Retired), Brad L. Doboszenski visit with a Vietnam veteran.

Paul Wagner, Chairman and CEO, Minnesota Wire and Lieutenant Colonel (Retired), Brad L. Doboszenski.

Paul Wagner, Chairman and CEO of Minnesota Wire welcomed everyone.

This year’s featured speaker was Lieutenant Colonel (Retired), Brad L. Doboszenski. Lieutenant Doboszenski’s honors include the Bronze Star, Defense Meritorious Service Medal, Meritorious Service Medal, Army Commendation Medal, and the NATO Medal.

Gold Star Mother, Retired SFC, Kaye K. Olson

Attendees represented every branch of the services. Included in the group was one Gold Star Mother, Retired SFC, Kaye K. Olson. Kaye lost her son U.S. Marine Sergeant Andy Stevens in Fallujah, Iraq on December 1, 2005.

Kaye gave 34 years of her own life to the U.S. Army while serving around the world. Since retiring, she has dedicated her time to serving veterans of every war. We were honored to have Kaye’s and all the veterans’ indomitable spirits and sense of comradery among us.

The Eau Claire Memorial Madrigal Singers performed “The Star-Spangled Banner,” “God Bless America,” and several other songs throughout the day.

Honor Wall

Famous Dave’s provided Texas Beef Brisket, Creamy Coleslaw, and Wilbur Beans. The meal was topped off with Culver’s Fresh Frozen Custard. Both Famous Dave’s and Culver’s are Wisconsin originals!

Raffle Excitement

Ann Kersting, Customer Service, Minnesota Wire. Ann was in charge of monitoring and drawing names for the raffle.

A raffle was held and watched with excitement. All proceeds of the raffle are donated to the Chippewa Falls Veterans Assistance Center.

Raffle Donations

Alibi Lounge

Auto Zone

Bowl Winkle’s

Chippewa River Distillery

Eau Claire City Community Service

General Beer Northwest

Harley Davidson

Hanger 54

Ho Chunk Casino

Infinity Beverage

Leinenkugel’s

Loopie’s

Main Street Café

Minnesota Wire

Nestlé

Old Dominon

Paws & Claws Total Dog

Silver Springs

Sleep Inn & Suites

Wayside Bar and Grill

Weekend at Bernies

Wild Ridge Golf Course

Wisconsin Metal Fab

Yellowstone Cheese

Community Sponsors

24/7 Telecom

AUSA-McCoy Chapter

AUSA-Vessey Chapter

Buska Retirement Solutions

Briggs Tent & Party Rental

Canteen

Cody Limousines

Culver’s

Eau Claire Memorial Madrigal Singers

Famous Dave’s

Festival Foods

General Beer Northwest

Leader Telegram

Jay’s Sign Service

Manpower

Minnesota Wire

Royal Credit Union

Scheels All Sports

Trinity Equestrian Center

Exhibitors

24/7 Telecom

American Red Cross

AUSA-McCoy Chapter

Buska Retirement Solutions

Cody Limousines

Garske’s Veteran Services

Manpower

Veterans Outreach and Recovery

VFW Post 7232

Vintage Vehicles

A Sincere Thank You

Everyone at Minnesota Wire would like to express their sincere appreciation to the sponsors, speakers, exhibitors, those who provided donations for the raffle, and everyone who freely gave their time to make this event a success. This event is a community effort and would not happen without the help of everyone who contributed.

Brian Wagner has already begun working on plans for next year’s event.

Watch this space!

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