Capt. Melgard of Grace City honored for leadership in Korea

Got story updates? Submit your updates here. ›

This 100-year-old story from the Foster County Independent highlights several notable events and people from the Carrington, North Dakota area in the 1920s, 1950s, 1970s, and 2000s. The main focus is on Capt. Robert B. Melgard of Grace City, who was awarded the Distinguished Flying Cross and a fifth Oak Leaf cluster to the Air Medal for his leadership and achievement in air missions over Korea.

Why it matters

This historical article provides a glimpse into the small-town life and community events that were important to residents of Foster County, North Dakota over the past century. It highlights the military service and achievements of local residents, as well as the social activities, school sports, and other happenings that brought the community together.

The details

The article covers a range of stories from the past 100 years in Foster County, including young people enjoying winter sports like skiing, a child breaking her arm in an accident, a successful community dance fundraiser, the start of a Red Cross fundraising drive, the formation of a veterans' basketball team, and the recognition of a local military officer for his service in the Korean War.

• In February 1926, young people in Carrington went skiing for the first time that winter.
• In March 1951, Capt. Robert B. Melgard was awarded the Distinguished Flying Cross and a fifth Oak Leaf cluster to the Air Medal for his service in the Korean War.
• In February 1976, the Carrington Chamber of Commerce held a reorganizational meeting and elected new board members.
• In February 2001, the Griggs-Steele Education Consortium received a $2.4 million grant to establish 21st Century Community Learning Centers.