Minnesotans gathered at the Minnesota State Fair to celebrate the service and sacrifice of those who have served their communities and country during the 15th annual Military Appreciation Day, Sept. 1, 2026.
Held at the State Fair grounds in Falcon Heights, the event brought together service members, veterans, military organizations and fairgoers under this year’s theme, “Your Neighbors, Our Community – Honoring all Service Members.”
“Minnesotans have always been ready, and always been there, to defend our nation,” said Sen. Amy Klobuchar. “These have not been actions of superheroes. They have been actions of ordinary Minnesotans who decided to put their lives on the line for the extraordinary.”
Throughout the day, fairgoers had the opportunity to interact with veteran organizations, listen to the 34th Infantry Division Red Bull Band, and meet men and women who have served their country.
The opening ceremony kicked the event at Luther Auto Band Shell with a C-130 Hercules flyover, and four service members were honored for distinctive actions in and out of uniform.
Army Master Sgt. Ryan Kelly, of East Bethel, was recognized for being the first on scene during the tragic Annunciation School shooting, while serving as a lieutenant with the Minneapolis Police Department.
Army Sgt. Jonathan Erickson, of Lakeville, was honored for his service to the community as a firefighter paramedic. Erickson previously received a Congressional Gold Medal from Rep. Angie Craig. He was also one of the Minnesota National Guard’s flight medics and supported wildfire operations this summer in northern Minnesota.
Air Force Tech. Sgt. Mary Andrzejek, from Blaine, was recognized for her medical logistics coordination during the early stages of Operation Epic Fury, which aided wounded personnel in the Middle East.
Army Spc. Ryan Boecker, from Becker, was also honored after helping save his civilian boss’s life during a major health event on a job site.
Following the ceremony, Wells Fargo and Apple Autos presented a vehicle to former U.S. Army Staff. Sgt Blake Grienbenow at the Dan Patch Park stage.
“It is a great space to engage with all branches of the military, veteran organizations who do so much great work, and honor some really great people,” said Army Lt. Col. Adam Scholze, community outreach chief for the Minnesota National Guard.
Throughout the day, local veterans and currently serving service members held conversations and received support from fairgoers and community organizations attending the event, highlighting the connection between those who serve and the communities they call home.”
“That legacy lives here in Minnesota,” said Maj. Gen. Shawn P. Manke, the Minnesota National Guard adjutant general. “They are your neighbors. And they make up our community.”