November 13, 2025, by the Seward Folly

On Veterans Day, the Seward American Legion was filled with thoughtful conversation as fourth and fifth-grade students from Seward Elementary spent the morning interviewing local veterans about their military experiences. The students, from Tara Swanson and Keri Russell’s classes, arrived ready to learn. They were greeted by eight veterans who had served in various branches and American Legion volunteers Sharon Dillon and Connie Kullander.

Among those sharing their stories were Bobby Dunno, Chad and Lavina Dickinson, both Coast Guard veterans; Taylor Crocker of the Air Force; and Jamie Crocker, Randy Rydberg, Larry Gentry, and Jim Gilmore, all of whom served in the Army. Randy Rydberg stood out for his broad experience, with active duty in the Marines as well as time in the Air Force and Army Reserves.

Veterans Day, observed every November 11th, marks the anniversary of World War I’s end, and is set aside to honor those who have served. The day’s program at the Legion began with the Pledge of Allegiance and prayers for missing servicemen and -women. A small table set with symbolic items was a poignant centerpiece, including a red rose to represent bloodshed, freedom, and families of those still missing.

Local historian Doug Capra added a highlight to the morning, presenting a slideshow about Edna Weir, a World War I field nurse and Seward resident. Weir was one of the original leaders who helped found the Seward American Legion, and her distinguished service in battlefield zones earned her one of only 24 Distinguished Service Medals awarded during the war. Known for her resilience, she ventured solo into dangerous conflict areas, volunteered for missions when there weren’t enough nurses, and outlived five husbands. Weir became a fixture in Seward. She wrote the Legion newsletter, advocated for veterans, and was appointed Brigadier General by Governor Sheffield before passing in 1988. Her efforts helped Seward’s Legion become one of the first five posts in Alaska, alongside Fairbanks, Juneau, Ketchikan, and Anchorage.

Following the presentation, students split into small groups to interview the veterans. Their questions ranged from what civilians should understand about military service, to how veterans adjusted to civilian life. Bobby Dunno shared that after years of being addressed as “Chief” in the Coast Guard, responding to his actual name felt unfamiliar. Lavina Dickinson fielded questions about her time on icebreaker ships, recalling her service aboard the Polar Sea in Antarctica. Jamie Crocker, who spent time in Iraq, remembered the comfort of Christmas care packages sent from American Legion groups across the country, and spoke about keeping in touch with family during her deployment.

Throughout the morning, the fourth and fifth-graders listened intently, showing respect for the stories and memories shared with them. Their interviews provided a chance to learn directly from those who served, making Veterans Day more than just an observance, but connecting students with the living history of their community.

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Student Reflection

Veterans day
11/11/25
Gideon Dax Glasgow-Anderson

For those whose tears have fell.
For those who have fallen.
For all the world has given us.
We use it all to stand and fight.
For all He wanted was peace.
But all we gave him is fight.
He wanted us to be loving and kind.
But we give him hate and pain.
For all the lives that fell for us.
All we give them is a smile.
From land to sea to even beyond this world itself.
All we give is a pat on the back.
For all they gave up to save us all.
Just for a thank you
And to this day we still celebrate all who make it back.
It’s called veterans day.
For its 11/11.
The 11 month on the 11 day at the 11 hour.
For 107 years ago, WW1 was no more.
We will end it all.
for today is the 11th month of the 11th day at the 11 hour.

Readers can find more student reflections from the Veterans Day interviews at this address.

Calendar of Upcoming American Legion Holiday Activities

The Seward American Legion has planned a number of public and community-oriented activities for the coming holiday season:

• November 14: The Auxiliary will hold a silent auction during steak night. Proceeds from the auction will help fund the many programs and projects the Auxiliary supports throughout the year.
• Thanksgiving Dinner: Open to the public, with meals also provided to those in need. If you know someone who would appreciate a delivered Thanksgiving meal, please call 907-224-5440.
• December 13: Breakfast with Santa, Santa Firetruck Parade, and Toys for Tots Program. The American Legion hosts breakfast, treats, and gifts for children under 12 years old. Last year, 124 children attended. If you know a child who would enjoy a gift from Santa this year, please call 907-224-5440.

The American Legion invites everyone in the community to join these holiday events, aimed at bringing people together and supporting those who need it most.

All veterans, veteran family members, and guests of veterans are welcome to join the American Legion.  Please call 907-224-5440 or stop by the American Legion for more information.