Three distinguished veterans were recently honored during the 23rd Annual Eagan Rotary Veterans Recognition Program. Pictured from left to right are Thomas L. Jensen, U.S. Army and Minnesota Army National Guard; Cynthia (Cindy) Ross Yanchury, U.S. Navy and Minnesota Army National Guard; and Mike LaGuire, U.S. Air Force. Thank you to these outstanding veterans for their service and sacrifice!
The Rotary Club of Eagan and Eagan Kick-Start Rotary Club proudly honored three local military veterans during their 23rd Annual Veterans Recognition Program, held Wednesday, November 4, at the Lost Spur Golf & Event Center in Eagan.
This year's honorees — Thomas L. Jensen, U.S. Army and Minnesota Army National Guard; Mike LaGuire, U.S. Air Force; and Cynthia (Cindy) Ross Yanchury, U.S. Navy and Minnesota Army National Guard — were selected following community nominations and interviews recognizing their military service and contributions. Together, the three veterans represent approximately 65 years of military service, reflecting an extraordinary commitment to our nation. During the program, each honoree shared personal reflections on the challenges, sacrifices, memorable experiences and profound sense of honor associated with serving in the United States Armed Forces.
The ceremony featured the presentation of colors, an invocation and patriotic musical selections performed by the Eagan Men's Chorus. Each veteran was also presented with a handmade Quilt of Valor in recognition of their service and sacrifice. The annual program provides an opportunity for Rotary members, community leaders, families and guests to express their appreciation for those who have served while preserving and sharing the personal stories of local veterans.
Honoring Three Distinguished Veterans
Thomas L. Jensen – U.S. Army and Minnesota Army National Guard
Thomas "Tom" Jensen served in the U.S. Army and Minnesota Army National Guard from 1989 to 2009. His military career included service as a chaplain providing spiritual guidance and support to fellow service members. His assignments included Fort Hood, Texas, and a deployment to Kosovo. Jensen's two decades of military service reflect a dedication to supporting the well-being of those serving our country.
Mike LaGuire – U.S. Air Force
Mike LaGuire served in the U.S. Air Force from 1962 to 1989 retiring with the distinguished rank of Chief Master Sergeant (E-9), the highest enlisted rank in the Air Force. During his 27-year military career, LaGuire served at numerous installations throughout the United States including assignments in Texas, Maine, New Jersey, Oklahoma and Florida, as well as service in Vietnam. His career reflects decades of leadership, dedication and commitment to the nation's defense.
Cynthia (Cindy) Ross Yanchury – U.S. Navy and Minnesota Army National Guard
Cindy Yanchury served in the U.S. Navy from 1973 to 1975 and 1976 to 1978 before continuing her military career in the Minnesota Army National Guard from 1980 to 1991. Her assignments included San Diego (CA), Adak (AK), Hartford (CT) and the St. Paul Armory in Minnesota. She attained the rank of Yeoman Third Class (YN3) in the Navy and Sergeant in the Army National Guard. Her military career demonstrates a lasting commitment to service across two branches of the Armed Forces.
To view the amazing array of photos from this year's Veterans Recognition Program courtesy of Rotary District Governor Leif Hagen, please click here!