Norsk Høstfest hosts military appreciation day

  • Published
  • By Senior Airman Kristoffer Kaubisch
  • Minot Air Force Base Public Affairs
MINOT AIR FORCE BASE, N.D. --  

Minot town officials hosted a military appreciation day during the 39th annual Norsk Høstfest last weekend to pay tribute to the men and women of Minot Air Force Base.

 

 Norsk Høstfest was founded in 1978 by the late Chester Reiten and a group of friends who shared an interest in celebrating their Nordic heritage.

 

The celebration has grown into North America’s largest Scandinavian festival. Hostfest focuses around five Nordic countries; Denmark, Finland, Iceland, Norway and Sweden.  The wide variety of displays available allow guests to participate in a Scandinavian cultural experience.

 

During this year’s event, military members and their families had the opportunity to enjoy free festivities and more during military appreciation day. Free admission and discounted tickets for main events were offered and service members were thanked by David Reiten, son of Norsk Høstfest founder and current director.

 

“Today is a very special day, in fact, it is my favorite day of all of Norsk Høstfest, because it’s military appreciation day,” said Reiten. “We hold this day to honor and appreciate the sacrifices the military has done in the past and will continue to do in the future.”

 

Col. Matthew Brooks, 5th Bomb Wing commander, attended the festival and thanked Reiten and members of Norsk Høstfest for hosting a military appreciation day.

 

“I know you have dedicated this day to celebrate patriotism and to honor the men and women in our military, we are truly grateful for that,” said Brooks. “But I want to take this moment to celebrate people like you, who provide support through events, fundraisers and friendships, support that gives encouragement, strength and purpose to our Airmen. We are truly blessed and thankful for your support.”

 

Year round, the city of Minot hosts several events for military members. For information on upcoming events visit the Minot Area Chamber of Commerce or their website at www.minotchamber.org.