MINOT, ND (KXNET) — Heroes are all around us, and today, they are being recognized for all that they do for our country, as the North Dakota Stockmen’s Association, North Dakota Beef Commission, and North Dakota CattleWomen hosted The North Dakota Beef Industries Military Appreciation Day.

This is the Appreciation Day’s nineteenth year. Leaders say they usually see around 1,400 people at the event.

“Our military is extremely important to us and our country,” says NDSA’s President Jason Leiseth. “It keeps us strong and safe. This was developed just as a way to say a real heartfelt thank you to our military, for keeping us safe and keeping our country strong.”

The lunch was open to all current military members, veterans, and all of their families.

“It is awesome that they honor all those that served,” says a veteran named Tom, “whether you have been in the Army, Air Force, Navy, Marines, or National Guard. They bring in their families, because being in the military when you are married is a family affair. It is not just about the airmen or the soldier, or the person serving.”

There were 750 pounds of beef and 1,000 hot dogs for lunch, and the meal included chips, cookies, and water. Guests were also able to explore several different booths at the lunch providing useful advice and resources. Some of these included the North Dakota Military Outreach Program, and the Community College of the Air Force.

“The National Guard has the band going in the back,” said NDBC Chairman Jason Zahn. “Some rope games are being played. We’ll hopefully continue to eat beef, as a lot of these people aren’t from rural North Dakota.”

Zahn says year after year, people are excited about the event, and that he always sees familiar faces. Veterans say it’s a tradition they look forward to every year.

“Obviously,” Tom states, “I like the food, and I like talking with a lot of the people. The young folks that are currently serving and the old folks — folks older than me that have served before.”

The State Fair is taking that appreciation even one step further by inviting active military, veterans, and first responders to attend Wednesday’s Sawyer Brown concert free of charge and leaders say, it’s a small gift for those who give so much.

Doors for the Sawyer Brown concert will open at 1:00 p.m. tomorrow, with the band set to hit the stage at 2:00 p.m. First responders and military personnel can show their credentials at the gates to receive their complimentary tickets.

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