Veteran Shares Importance Of Service

Independence Day

Wolf Point native and Vietnam War era veteran Fred McGeshick was recently in the area and treasured time at the Northeast Montana Veterans Memorial in Fort Peck.

McGeshick, who lived in Wolf Point from 1956-1974, served in the U.S. Army from 1974-1977. The Vietnam era veteran was sworn in during January 1974 in Butte.

“I joined because I wanted to get out of the reservation and my mother told me at that time it was the best decision I made for myself at 18 years old,” McGeshick said.

While defending our country, McGeshick earned four medals.

After his service, he attended the University of Oklahoma and earned a computer science degree. He also earned a minor in business administration from Southwestern Indian Polytechnic Institute where he made the dean’s list.

“I would encourage young men or women to join the military for experience and education,” he added.

During his military career, he was stationed in Fort Lewis, Wash., Chong Dong Ni in South Korea and Fort Lee, Va.

As the country prepares to celebrate Independence Day, he is very proud to be an American. He has been living in Washington state for the past 23 years.

“Absolutely, because it’s the Land of the Free and Home of the Brave. Stand beside her, guide her through the night from above.”

This year’s 250th anniversary of independence will be special on July 4. He plans to celebrate at Columbia Park in Kennewick, Wash.