Andrew Blackhawk American Legion Post 129 and the Ladies Auxiliary hosted a celebration honoring Corporal Mitchell Red Cloud Jr. and his family on July 4 at the Andrew Blackhawk Memorial Day Powwow Grounds near Black River Falls.

     The day began with a Fire pipe ceremony and brunch.  Matthew Mann emceed the event and doubled as arena director.

     A new flag presentation to the family of Mitchell Red Cloud Jr. took place, and the new flags flew near the arena entrance for the majority of the event. 

     The Sweet Grass Stables drum group rendered honor songs.

     A feathering ceremony took place.  Combat veteran Lance Rave honored Tia Chick with an eagle feather.

     Around noon, the Ladies Auxiliary announced the names of distinguished Auxiliary members who have passed on.  The names included Judith Ann Thundercloud, Velma Lewis, Eunice Greengrass, Betty Greengrass White, and Doreen Browneagle.

     A short pause took place after the Thunder Bear drum arrived.  Then, the sound system relocated from the announcer’s stand to the center of the arena.

     Grand entry took place after 1 PM.  The emcee encouraged visitors to dance, visit the food stands, and stay hydrated with the water provided.

     Veterans ceremoniously took down the flags, and closing songs ended the event after 3 PM.