North Dakota Department of Veterans Affairs

06/23/2026

https://www.minotdailynews.com/news/local-news/2026/06/nds-longest-living-world-war-ii-veteran-dies/

North Dakota’s longest living World War II veteran has died. Ray Curtis, Minot, formerly of Columbus, died Sunday, June 21, at a Minot assisted living facility. He was 109 years old. In recent years, he was recognized as one of the oldest living World War II veterans in North Dakota and more recen...

06/23/2026

NDDVA would like to honor the life and service of Ray Curtis of Minot, who passed away on June 21 at the age of 109. One of the oldest living World War II veterans in the nation, Ray proudly served five years in the U.S. Army before returning home to farm and raise his family. His remarkable longevity was matched only by his dedication to staying active and engaged in life. Our thoughts are with his loved ones as we remember his legacy of service and strength.

Link:

North Dakota’s longest living World War II veteran has died. Ray Curtis, Minot, formerly of Columbus, died Sunday, June 21, at a Minot assisted living facility. He was 109 years old. In recent years, he was recognized as one of the oldest living World War II veterans in North Dakota and more recen...

06/17/2026

🇺🇸 Honoring SSGT Irvin Ellingson: A Hero’s Homecoming 84 Years in the Making 🇺🇸

This week, our community, veterans organizations, and the Ellingson family are coming together for a historic three‑day tribute as Staff Sergeant Irvin Ellingson finally returns home to North Dakota.

Irvin left the Ellingson family farm near Dahlen in December 1942 to serve in the U.S. Army Air Corps. Eight decades later, he is being welcomed home with the dignity, gratitude, and patriotism he earned through his service and sacrifice.

The Homecoming includes:

➡️ Wednesday, June 17
Arrival at MSP Airport and convoy north, with American Legion Posts honoring Irvin along the route.

➡️ Thursday, June 18 – Veterans Park, Grand Forks (4:00 p.m.)
A formal welcome ceremony featuring the Grand Forks City Band, Honor Guard, prayers, and remarks from state and local leaders.

➡️ Friday, June 19 – Dahlen, ND (2:00 p.m.)
A celebration of Irvin’s life at the Terry & Dee Ann Ellingson Farm Event Center, including family tributes, historical reflections, and musical performances.

➡️ Saturday, June 20 – Dahlen Lutheran Church
Viewing at 11:00 a.m., funeral at 2:00 p.m., and a full military honors burial at Middle Forest River Cemetery. A B‑52 flyover from Minot AFB is scheduled for 4:00 p.m.

This homecoming is a powerful reminder of service, sacrifice, and the strength of family and community. Thank you to everyone helping honor Irvin’s memory and ensuring he is welcomed home with the respect he deserves.

https://www.veterans.nd.gov/news/homecoming-events-honor-ssgt-irvin-ellingson-three-day-tribute-patriotism-family-and-community

06/15/2026

05/29/2026

Our department is selling a well‑maintained 2017 Ford Transit Van previously used to safely transport veterans to and from the VA Medical Center.

This vehicle has been regularly serviced, kept in excellent condition, and is ready for its next mission.

If you or someone you know is interested, please reach out for details or to schedule a viewing.

Supporting veterans has been an honor — now this van can continue serving someone new.

05/29/2026

Mark your calendars!

The ND Vietnam Veterans of America State Meeting & Picnic is happening July 18 in Mayville.

Come for the meetings, stay for the cookout, music, and silent auction — all in support of our Vietnam veterans and their families.

Please RSVP by July 10.

Contact:
Cheryl — 541‑840‑9973 • [email protected]
Penny — 701‑740‑9476 • [email protected]

Let’s make this a meaningful day of connection and gratitude.

05/27/2026

Proud to congratulate the Cass County VSO for earning the Exceptional Outreach Award!

Their 2025 Stand Down event in Fargo made a real difference — 318 attendees, 185 veterans served, and 15 veterans connected to VA services for the first time.

This team continues to raise the bar for veteran support in our region. Thank you for your commitment to our community!

🇺🇸 What the Stand Down Achieved
The Fargo Stand Down, organized by the Cass County Veterans Service Office, delivered measurable, high‑impact results for the veteran community:

318 total attendees — a strong turnout showing broad community engagement.

185 veterans served — the core mission: connecting veterans directly with resources.

38% increase in veteran turnout — a major year‑over‑year jump, demonstrating successful outreach and growing trust.

15 veterans connected to VA services for the first time — one of the most important outcomes. These are individuals who previously had no access or weren’t engaged with the VA system.

Dozens of service providers on site — including VA enrollment, benefits counseling, housing support, employment resources, and community partners.

Expanded community partnerships — the event strengthened collaboration between county, state, federal, and nonprofit organizations.

🎯 Why These Results Matter
The increase in turnout shows effective outreach and a growing reputation for trust and accessibility.

First‑time VA connections are often life‑changing — unlocking healthcare, disability benefits, housing programs, and long‑term support.

High attendance demonstrates that the Stand Down is becoming a regional anchor event for veterans seeking help.

The results directly contributed to Cass County VSO receiving the Exceptional Outreach Award.

05/27/2026

Ride with purpose on June 6th at the CVMA® 7th Annual Ride for the Vets!
Meet at Runnings (Grand Forks) — registration at 11 AM, kickstands up at Noon.

Your support helps local veterans through CVMA® ND 42‑2.

$20 riders / $10 passengers.