The Superior Express -

The Superior Auditorium Community Center hosted an Inaugural Veterans Day program and lunch Friday in observance of the holiday formerly known as Armistice Day.

Armistice Day was observed to mark the end of armed, hostilities in WW I when they ceased at 11 a.m. on the 11th day of November, the 11th month of 1918.

In 1954, the United States renamed the holiday Veterans Day, to honor all those, living and deceased, who had served their country in times of conflict and peace.

The color guard from the Superior American Legion Post opened the program with the presentation of the colors.

Arnold Ross led the assembled guests in the Pledge of Allegiance.

Vickie Nielsen led the attendees in the singing of the National Anthem.

Dave Johnson, pastor of the Evangelical Free Church in Superior, led the group in prayer.

Vickie Nielsen gave the welcome remarks.

Andrew Miller was the featured speaker. Miller was a United States Marine Corps Harrier fighter jet pilot. He then served as a F-16 fighter pilot with the South Dakota Air National Guard. He retired from the military in 2019. Miller served tours of duty in Afghanistan and Iraq where he flew numerous combat sorties.

Mike Sanders (left), pastor of the Superior Church of Christ, and Vickie Neilsen performed "My Country T'is of Thee" and "America the Beautiful" at the Superior Auditorium's Veterans Day program, Friday.

Miller noted that honoring veterans for their service was a noble thought. It was more important to invest in relationships with veterans.

He evoked the essence of hard work to do the job correctly. In the military this is instilled in every member. Failure to do the job right can lead to catastrophic consequences.

His theme was "Do the work, do the job and do it well."

Rodney Deuel, Superior Elks Lodge, narrated a history of the many different flags of the United States. He was assisted by Bruce Tinkham.

Vickie Nielsen, accompanied by Mike Sanders, pastor of the Superior Church of Christ, performed "My Country Tis of Thee" and "America the Beautiful."

The color guard retired the colors. Dave Johnson presented the closing prayer and the meal blessing.

A light meal of sandwiches was served for the more than 60 people in attendance.