Veterans representing all branches of the military from Southeast Minnesota gathered at the 18th Annual Military Ball on Saturday evening, April 26, at the Fest Building in Spring Grove. The event, steep in history and tradition, welcomed approximately 120 attendees, including veterans, their spouses, and members of the public.
Col. Fuller’s speech focused on community, compassion, and commitment while reflecting on past service, the present, and the future of the armed forces.
Fuller said, “Without community, we can not be successful.” She highlighted the strong community roots in Spring Grove, where at least 60 veterans have lost their lives in service to the country. “That is a tremendous sacrifice from such a small town, and I am duly impressed with the citizen spirit and service that comes from this section of the country and in particular from Spring Grove,” she said.
Fuller emphasized that compassion is essential in today’s uncertain world – remembering lost veterans, supporting those currently serving, and encouraging future generations. She concluded by stressing the community’s commitment to standing behind service members, both now and in the years to come.
Upon arrival, attendees were directed to a photo station set against a red, white, and blue backdrop – a keepsake from a memorable evening.
The room sparkled with patriotic decorations, including small lights overhead that created a “starry night” atmosphere. A large U.S. flag served as a stunning focal point, and attendees were able to enjoy a Quilt of Valor display and an exhibit featuring various military uniforms of years past.
The Spring Grove High School choir delivered stirring renditions of the “Star Spangled Banner,” the Armed Services military anthems, and finished up with “What a Wonderful World.” Their performance received high praise.
The evening included a solemn POW/MIA ceremony and a remembrance of area veterans who had passed away during 2024, with a bell rung after each name. The ceremony concluded with a stirring performance of “Echo Taps,” played by two buglers, one starting slightly behind the other and positioned at opposite ends of the room to create a haunting, echoing effect.
Among the attendees were Roy Lange, a Chatfield veteran, and his wife Kathy, who have attended all 18 Military Balls. Lange, who served two years of active duty and two years in the Reserve, humorously recalled delivering some “Dear John” letters during his service. He also shared fond memories of learning to dance in high school – a skill he proudly still showcases on the dance floor with his wife.
Cheers Big Band, an eight-piece ensemble from La Crosse, Wois., provided live music after the ceremony, sponsored each year by a generous family committed to keeping the tradition alive.
In 2004, one of the original co-chairs explained her vision of the ball, “We are honoring all military who have served our country, past and current, and from every aspect of the military. We are honoring those who are standing guard at their own door, to those with service in other countries. We want to let all these military people know that we appreciate them.”
The 19th Annual Military Ball is scheduled for Saturday, April 18, 2026. Organizers invite all veterans, their families, and supporters to attend.
See you next year in Spring Grove!
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