The 4-H building in Slayton was full to its brim as people gathered to hear the stories of local Korean War veterans. The historical presentation was part of the ongoing Dinehart Lunch Box series. Each month a different topic is chosen.
Gary Kass has spent the last year reaching out to several Korean War veterans as a way of sharing their stories. Kass visited with eight members from Murray County who had served during this time. He reached out to the local Legion posts to obtain names and then started connecting with them. “I was in (service) and I feel it’s many stories for Korea and Vietnam never got told,” explained Kass. “This is part of our heritage,” He explained although maybe someone didn’t personally serve, however, more than likely knew someone who did. He continued, “There were five from Murray County didn’t come back.”
The idea of interviewing veterans started as a result of a conversation Kass had with 94 year old veteran while visiting the blind center in Chicago. This gentleman had spent two years and four months as a prisoner of war. After returning home, Kass summarized this conversation turning it into an article which was published in this gentleman’s local newspaper. Kass is slowly loosing his vision and feels this is one way he can continue to contribute. “I get a lot of this as well. Not only do I have the opportunity to hear their stories but I get to write…which I love to do.”
Kass’ history piece include local veterans Charles Toner, Dean Bundy, Rueben Anderson, Alvin Hoffbeck, Delwin Moore, Ken Borgstahl, Paul Beech, and Richard Lanners. All were hand at the presentation except Charles Toner, and Alvin Hoffbeck.
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