The 95th Annual Department of South Dakota Veterans of Foreign Wars Convention was hosted by VFW Post 2038 of Pierre, June 19-22 at the Pierre Ramkota Inn.

More than 150 VFW and Auxiliary members from throughout the state attended. Wagner’s Post 7319 was represented by Quartermaster Jerry Seiner and Auxiliary Treasurer Sandy Seiner.

The convention began with a VFW and Auxiliary awards presentation on Thursday evening. Wagner’s Rollie Bucholz Post 7319 received certificates of participation in Community Service, Americanism, Youth Activities, Service and Rehabilitation, National Military Service, Special Olympics, Buddy Poppy, Voice of Democracy, Patriot’s Pen, Loyalty Day, Memorial Day, and Teacher of the Year. The Auxiliary also received certificates in all the same categories.

In the South Dakota VFW Newsletter contest, Post 7319 received first place for a newsletter published four or less times a year. Post 7319 was also recognized as a Quota Buster Post as they achieved 102.32% membership for the 2024-2025 year.

Post Commander Mark Roberts and Post Quartermaster Jerry Seiner both received a “White Hat” in recognition of their selection to the Department All State Team.

The opening VFW business meeting began at 8:30 a.m. Friday morning followed by a Joint Memorial Service at 11:00. The service was held at the First Lutheran Church where deceased members from the past year were honored. BG Wyatt Hansen was the guest speaker for the service. A joint opening session was held on Friday afternoon with Senator John Thune and SD Speaker of the House and Gubernatorial candidate, Jon Hansen, addressing the veterans. Sen. Thune gave an update on issues relating to veterans and promised to work diligently to pass legislation to assist veterans. Hansen thanked the veterans for their service to our country and the Auxiliary members for supporting the veterans. He vowed to do everything in his power to support South Dakota Veterans if elected.

Awards were also presented to state winners in the EMT, Firefighter and Law Enforcement Officer of the Year categories.

The VFW business meeting continued with Department elections held on Saturday afternoon. Dr. Marty Christensen, Mitchell Post 2750, was elected Department Commander for the 2025-2026 year.

The convention was concluded with the convention banquet, which was held at the Ramkota Inn.