During this year’s Summer Salute at CHS Field, we witnessed a truly special moment that reminded us what service and leadership look like at their very best.

In front of a crowd of Veterans, service providers, and community members, Brigadier General Joe Sharkey, Division Commander of the 34th “Red Bull” Infantry Division, presented Sergeant Major Sadie Rezac with the Meritorious Service Medal in recognition of her exceptional military career and retirement from the Minnesota Army National Guard.

Summer Salute is all about recognizing and supporting Minnesota’s Veterans, and it was a fitting backdrop to honor a leader like Sergeant Major Rezac. As she retires from a distinguished military career, this award celebrates her exceptionally meritorious service while holding positions of increasing responsibility within the Guard.

Her exemplary leadership, technical expertise, and professionalism have left a lasting impact not just on the 34th Infantry Division, but on the entire Minnesota Army National Guard. Her selfless dedication to mission accomplishment represents the highest traditions of military service and reflects great credit upon herself, her division, and the United States Army.

We are grateful to have shared this meaningful recognition with the broader Veteran and military-connected community gathered at Summer Salute. To Sergeant Major Sadie Rezac, we offer our deepest congratulations and appreciation. Your legacy of service continues to inspire as you continue to work with MACV as our Southern Regional Director.

And to Brigadier General Sharkey, thank you for joining us to help mark this milestone in such a powerful and personal way.