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South Dakota Secretary of Veterans Affairs Jeremiah Schneider
Episode 3100 of the Vietnam Veteran News Podcast will feature news items from South Dakota about what the good people of that state are doing to honor the memory of their Vietnam War veterans and POW/MIA’s.
On September 19, 2025, the people of South Dakota once again will demonstrate their unwavering commitment to honoring America’s heroes, as Governor Larry Rhoden proclaimed POW/MIA Recognition Day across the state. In a deeply moving observance, South Dakotans will come together to remember the sacrifices of prisoners of war and those still missing in action—men and women who served with honor and never returned home.
Secretary of Veterans Affairs Jeremiah Schneider, a veteran himself, emphasized the solemn responsibility of remembrance. “We owe an enduring debt to our prisoners of war and those missing in action,” he said. “And we continue to advocate tirelessly for their recovery and recognition.”
South Dakota continues to honor six unaccounted-for veterans from the Vietnam War, along with dozens more from previous conflicts. On this day, flags were flown, ceremonies held, and families embraced as communities reaffirmed their pledge: You are not forgotten.
Highlighting this commitment, the state will dedicate the US HWY 14A bridge over Deadwood Creek as the PFC Peter R. Ommen Bridge on September 18. PFC Ommen, a U.S. Marine mortarman, gave his life in the Vietnam War during Operation Prairie IV in 1967. The bridge dedication, part of the Fallen Heroes Bridge Dedication Program, is one of many ways South Dakota ensures its heroes are never just names on a page—but stories etched into the land itself.
“Through these bridges, their stories remain a vital part of South Dakota’s heritage,” Schneider noted. “These are not just structures—they are reminders of sacrifice, courage, and the price of freedom.”
In every flag flown and every bridge named, the good people of South Dakota continue to lead the nation in remembrance, gratitude, and honor.
Listen to Episode 3100 and discover more about what the good people of South Dakota are doing to honor the memory of their Vietnam War veterans and POW/MIA’s.
