Tell us about a veteran who you admire
BAND OF BROTHERS
The veterans I admire are brothers, the Bettenhausen military men. Howard was the oldest. He enlisted in the U.S. Army back in 1939 and served faithfully for 30 years. He served in Greenland, Korea, Germany and other European counties. He was the one the other brothers admired.
Warren was the second to enlist in the U.S. Army, serving in the 101st Airborne Division and seeing action in the Battle of the Bulge. Larry, Oliver Jr. and Edgar all joined the Army as well. Larry fought in Korea; Oliver was an infantry sharpshooter and master parachutist; and Edgar was a medical specialist.
Neil went a different direction and joined the U.S. Navy as an air controlman. His brothers lovingly referred to him as the “black sheep” of the family, since he joined the Navy rather than the Army.
Today, three of them have died. Two are in nursing homes, while the last lives in California. These men have made their family proud and have served their country well. I am proud to be a part of their family and even prouder of their dedication and service to this country.
Peggy Bettenhausen
KEM Electric Cooperative
PROUD OF DAD
The veteran I admire most is my dad. He fought in the Afghanistan war, also known as Operation Enduring Freedom, from the fall of 2005 to the spring of 2007. He served in the N.D. National Guard for 21 years.
He is a humble veteran, not wanting recognition for the time he served. My dad rarely talks about his time in Afghanistan, but what he has told me makes me grateful for the life I have, because many people do not have the luxuries we often take for granted.
My dad works hard every day. He is a proud husband and father of six children. I am so glad he is my dad.
I thank all other veterans who fought in the historic wars of our great country. Happy Veterans Day!
Donavin Vetter
McLean Electric Cooperative
MY VETERAN NEIGHBOR
The veteran I admire is my neighbor, Tony. He served our country in Vietnam during his time in the U.S. Army. Tony came back home with three Purple Hearts, as well as several other citations and medals.
One of the many experiences Tony shared was when he was standing behind a humvee with several other soldiers during patrol. All of a sudden, shots were fired by the enemy. Some of the soldiers were seriously wounded and others were killed in action, dropping right beside him. Tony was able to drop to the ground, but others weren’t able to once the firing started.
This scene is embedded in his mind, and when I visit him, he tells me more horrific stories about the Vietnam War. I hope by talking about these terrible war stories, it is helping him to heal from his time in Vietnam.
Tony can lift a person’s spirit by just visiting with him. He doesn’t feel sorry for himself and is always upbeat and cheerful.
Thank you, Tony, for your service. We should have more people like him in this country. If you are enjoying your freedom, thank a veteran!
Bill Koch
Mor-Gran-Sou Electric Cooperative
UPCOMING READER REPLY QUESTION:
DECEMBER: What’s the best homemade gift you’ve ever given or received?
Deadline for submission: Nov. 10
JANUARY: What is your favorite memory unique to growing up in North Dakota?
Deadline for submission: Dec. 11
We want to hear FROM you: Submissions should be no more than 250 words, typewritten or in legible handwriting. Include your name, complete address, daytime phone number and the name of the rural electric cooperative to which you belong. Note: Magazine staff reserves the right to make editing changes and cuts. We pay $25 for each letter we print. Email to ndliving@ndarec.com or mail to READER REPLY, North Dakota Living, P.O. Box 727, Mandan, ND 58554-0727.
