By Kristin Holtz, Staff Writer

On the worst night Bob Monnens ever spent in the Army, there wasn’t a shot fired.

His surveying crew was attached to an artillery battery that found itself on the shot-up beach of some South Pacific Island late one afternoon.

By Kristin Holtz, Staff Writer

Bernard Hughes waited a long time for this day.

Sixty-four years, in fact.

On June 20, Hughes’ family presented the 96-year-old with seven medals from his service in World War II.

Air Force Airman Michael P. Valiant recently graduated from basic military training at Lackland Air Force Base, San Antonio, Texas. The airman completed an intensive, eight-week program that included training in military discipline and studies, Air Force core values, physical fitness and basic warfare principles and skills. Valiant, a 2008 graduate of Shakopee High School, is the son of Daniel and Janet Valiant of Shakopee.

Students at Shakopee Area Catholic School celebrated Liberty Day with the Shakopee Lions May 21. See photos of the event, where Army Major John Sims of Shakopee spoke to the citizens about what it means to be a good citizen.

Order pictures at Shakopee's Smugmug Web site.

The Scott County Veterans Service Office is seeking photos of deceased veterans from Scott County to honor them this Memorial Day. The pictures will be on display at the Government Center in Shakopee.

It is preferred the veteran be in military uniform in the photo; however, if there is none, any photo could be used.

Veterans Affairs are teaming up for what is expected to be the largest Vietnam Veteran event in Minnesota History.

Thousands of Veterans, families, friends and supporters are expected to gather June 13 on the Minnesota State Capitol Grounds to honor and remember all Veterans who served during the Vietnam era.

Sponsored by the Minnesota Department of Veterans Affairs, this event is designed to unite the Minnesota community in support, gratitude and celebration of the brave men and women who served during the Vietnam War era.

By Shawn Hogendorf

Correspondent

It is estimated that more than 3,000 Minnesota military personnel will return from active duty in August of 2007.