BISMARCK, N.D. — Ten North Dakota Guardsmen will be recognized tomorrow as the first individuals to receive a new state award during a ceremony at the Circle of Nations School in Wahpeton. The Woodrow Wilson Keeble “Je Suis Pret” (I am Ready) Award was recently approved and was created to recognize North Dakota National Guard Soldiers or Airmen who display courage, fortitude, and determination to protect or defend life, limb or property.
The public is welcome to attend the ceremony, which will be hosted by Maj. Gen. Al Dohrmann, North Dakota adjutant general.
Gov. Doug Burgum, Mr. Scott Davis, Executive Director, North Dakota Indian Affairs Commission and Mr. Russell Hawkins, Keeble’s stepson, will join Dohrmann in rendering remarks.
Master Sgt. Woodrow “Woody” Wilson Keeble, whose name is attributed to the new award, is among the most decorated Soldiers to ever serve in the North Dakota National Guard.
“In the future, whenever we recognize one of our North Dakota Guard members for heroism, bravery and selfless service with this award, we honor and remember this great American,” said Dohrmann. “Keeble’s military service to our nation and state will long be remembered.”
Keeble was awarded the Medal of Honor posthumously at a ceremony at the White House hosted by President George W. Bush in 2008 for actions during the Korean War. During World War II, he served in the Pacific Theater with the famous North Dakota National Guard’s 164th Infantry Regiment. There he earned the Bronze Star Medal, two Purple Hearts and the Combat Infantry Badge.
Keeble is also a recipient of North Dakota’s Theodore Roosevelt Rough Rider award.
WHO: North Dakota National Guard
WHAT: Keeble Award Ceremony
WHEN: 2 p.m., Friday, March 29, 2019
WHERE: Circle of Nations School, 832 8th St N, Wahpeton, N.D. 58075
MEDIA: The public is welcome. No pre-coordination needed.
Amber Schatz (701) 426-5205 will be on site to assist.
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The North Dakota National Guard is a trained and highly motivated force of about 4,000 Citizen-Soldiers and Citizen-Airmen. We are always prepared to provide ready units, individuals and equipment in support of our communities, state and nation. Always ready, always there.
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