Jeanne Sexton-Brown

On Monday, October 27, The Military Veteran Hospice Strike Team convened at the North Dakota Veterans Home Chapel to honor Corporal Ernest “Ernie” Hoelscher for his service to his country.

Presiding Officer Major Galen Schroder, himself a Veteran of the United States Army who began his military career as a Spec4 admin clerk with the Kansas National Guard. He was commissioned as a Second Lieutenant in 1964 and served on Active Duty for six years, including tours in Germany and VietNam and an additional 13 years in the Army reserves.

Major Schroder called Attention to Orders, which is a traditional call in the Armed Services to announce the beginning of a military awards ceremony. This announcement was used to begin the HIA (Hearts in Action) Hospice “We Honor Veterans” ceremony to recognize and honor the service and sacrifices made by US Army Corporal Ernest Hoelscher during his service to the United States of America.

“Corporal Ernest Hoelscher, when you joined the US Army, you swore an oath to support and defend the Constitution of the United States against all enemies foreign and domestic. You took on this obligation freely and served proudly. It is our pleasure and privilege to be here on behalf of the United States Armed Services and HIA Hospice to honor you.”

Christine Sauvageau, volunteer coordinator for HIA Hospice red team, served as the MC for the ceremony. She informed those assembled that Corporal Ernest “Ernie” Hoelscher had been drafted into the U.S. Army in 1952 and served on the front lines of the Korean War in 1953. He was discharged at Fort Carson in 1954 and transferred to the Army Reserve to complete eight additional years of service under the Universal Military Training and Service Act.

She went on to say, “While serving, Ernie contracted malaria and was wounded during action in Korea. In 1973 his military records were lost in a fire at the National Personnel Records Center in St. Louis, and he never received his purple heart, though they are working on getting that corrected. Ernie was the recipient of seven Military Medals that were presented to him by Senator John Hoven in 2014.”

Major Schroder stated that he could attest that Corporal Hoelscher’s service to his country entitles him to be recognized as a Hero among Heroes.

“His dedication is inspiring and serves as a role model for todays’ young men and women who take the oath of office to serve this great country,” added Major Schroder.

“Corporal Hoelscher you have served your country honorably during critical times in the United States. Your actions helped keep the US military’s efforts moving forward and clearly saved US and Allied lives in the service to our country. You are responsible for allowing us to have the freedoms we have today,”

He went on to say, “We want to thank you on behalf of the United States and HIA Hospice. You are a true hero who has set high standards for anyone who would aspire to follow in your footsteps. You have our unwavering gratitude for the sacrifices you have made to this great country.”

Second Class Petty Officer Willie Gartner read the Certificate presented to Corporal Hoelscher:

“HIA Hospice Honors Ernest Hoelscher, United States Army. We pay special tribute to you for your military service to America and for advancing the universal hope of freedom and liberty for all. Signed, Jim Sterling, United States Air Force, Colonel (Retired)”

Major Schroder presented the Service Pin for the United States Army. “When you see this pin and certificate, please know that your service to the nation is deeply appreciated.”

Sauvageau presented Corporal Hoelscher with an Honorary Star from a retired flag. Major Schroder presented the Challenge Coin. He was also presented a hand crocheted Red, White and Blue afghan to place on his lap, to bring comfort and warmth, “Like you have brought to so many.”

Major Schroder informed Corporal Hoelscher that they wished to offer a salute to him as a sigh of respect for everything he has done.

Major Schroder then gave the command: “Detachment, Present Arms (slow salute)” to which Corporal Hoelscher made two attempts to salute with his right hand, but needed to use his left arm to help lift his right arm up for the salute, due to a recent fall that prevented him from freely lifting his arm.

HIA Hospice Chaplain David Montecuollo prayed over Corporal Hoelscher before the ceremony was completed.

Find more about Corporal Ernest “Ernie” Hoelscher in the November 7th Northern Sentry’s Tribute to Service feature.