SIOUX FALLS, S.D. (KELO.com) — Today, Governor Kristi Noem spoke at the groundbreaking ceremony for South Dakota’s first State Veterans Cemetery near Sioux Falls.
More than 100 people attended Monday’s groundbreaking ceremony despite the rainy weather. Besides Gov. Noem, other notable dignitaries included Senator Mike Rounds, South Dakota Department of Veterans Affairs Secretary Greg Whitlock, Sioux Falls Mayor Paul TenHaken, Lieutenant Governor Larry Rhoden, and Under Secretary of Veterans Affairs for Memorial Affairs Randy Reeves.
Noem says South Dakota is home to more than 72,000 veterans. Of those, approximately 50,000 live on the eastern side of the state. Once constructed, this will be the first-ever South Dakota State Veterans Cemetery.
The project will develop approximately 12.9 acres on property north of the I-229/I-90 Interchange off Slip Up Creek Road and 477th Ave.
“This cemetery is a tribute to our patriots,” Noem said. “It immortalizes the sacrifices that have been made for our freedoms, and more than that, it shows our kids and grandkids that sacrifice does not go unnoticed.”
She said that veterans helping to make the cemetery happen made the groundbreaking even more special.
“Many of you here today – I’ve seen your faces – have spent over a decade working on this project,” she said. “It was your passion for this project that kept the momentum going and actually made it a reality that we’re standing here today. And I know we still have work to do. I’m committed to doing that work with you.”
Lt. Gov. Rhoden said the cemetery will afford the state the opportunity to honor its veterans and their comrades forever.
(Gov. Noem’s Office contributed to this report.)
