South Dakota’s fallen hero’s bridge program conducts dedication ceremonies throughout the state.
The program dedicates bridges to South Dakotans who were killed in combat or classified as missing in action.
It’s a joint effort between the governor’s office, state VA and DOT.
Private First Class Cy Kaiser served in the United States Army with the 104th Infantry Division.
Kaiser gave the ultimate sacrifice on Nov 21st, 1944, and was killed in action while serving in Germany.
The Kaiser family is no stranger to sacrifice. Cheryl Kaiser is the niece of Cy Kaiser and shared the family’s message. She said the Kaiser family has served in every major US conflict.
“My grandparents, Frank and Anna Kaiser, encouraged a life of service. They both served as sheriffs of Potter County for ten years. Three of their sons served in World War II in addition to Cy, his brothers Richard and Bud also served in the Pacific Theater and fortunately survived," said Kaiser. "His youngest brother, my uncle Jim, is a retired Army reservist. My dad, Cy the Second, he served during the Vietnam conflict, and I was in the Air Force and served during the Gulf War.”
Kaiser said bridge dedications are a great way for the state to recognize fallen heroes.
Greg Whitlock is the South Dakota Secretary of Veteran Affairs. He read Gov. Kristi Noem’s dedication message.
“Each of our fallen heroes displayed uncommon valor. Each of them sacrificed something greater than themselves. The very least that we can do is honor them, and their families for what they gave to defend our freedom,” said Whitlock.
In five years, there have been 41 bridge dedications for 44 South Dakota service members who died in the line of duty.
