KFGO's Robbie Daniels, spoke with Bernie, next to the Vietnam Memorial Wall:
Bernard J. “Bernie” McKigney
US Army // ND National Guard
SP5 // 1SG
I grew up in Dougherty, Iowa and now call Moorhead, Minnesota home. I was drafted by the Army and served on active duty from July 1968 through May 1970. After completing basic training at Fort Lewis, Washington, I became an infantryman with the 11th Inf. Bde. Americal Div. We saw time in Vietnam; Fort Benning, Georgia; and Wurzburg, Germany. Surviving an explosion while in Vietnam and earning a Purple Heart and Army Commendation Medal are things I’m so grateful for.
After active duty, I taught music in the Pelican Rapids schools for eight years. I then joined the Guard, playing clarinet and serving as company clerk in the 188th Army Band. In 1978 I became the band’s full-time technician and would retire in 2003. I continued civilian work as a delivery driver and meter reader for Cass County Electric. I still work part-time for Menards and the Fargodome events.
My wife and I married in 1970. I’ve been fortunate to be able to teach my niece and nephews in school over the years. I so enjoy music in my free time, both playing and directing for two Veterans Bands. I also enjoy working on our hobby farm near Middle River.
I am a member of the American Legion, VFW, DAV, Americal DIV, and VVA.
Learn more about the Veterans Honor Flight of ND/MN on their website.
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
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