On November 8, the Veterans Appreciation Celebration brought together Bloomington veterans, families and community members in a heartfelt tribute to military service.
Hosted at the Minnesota Masonic Heritage Center, the event was made possible by the support of the Community Outreach and Engagement Division, American Legion Post #550 and dedicated volunteers. The ceremony began with the Posting of the Flag by the Bloomington Police Honor Guard followed by the National Anthem performed by the Nativity of Mary Sunday choir. Representative Steve Elkins, Vice Chair of the Veterans and Military Affairs Finance and Policy Committee, opened with words of gratitude, setting a respectful tone for the event.
The Veterans Appreciation Celebration was a genuine expression of community support, honoring the sacrifices of service members and reminding attendees of the enduring impact of military service.
Travis Brinkman, Navy 2004-Present
Commander Travis D. Brinkman, a Bloomington native with nearly two decades of Navy service, delivered the keynote address at the Veterans Appreciation Celebration in November. He shared his story of dedication and gratitude for the veterans who paved the way, including his father, Duane Brinkman, a Vietnam veteran.
Note: Commander Brinkman was featured on the November Briefing veterans appreciation page and was incorrectly identified as serving in the Army.
