FARGO, N.D. - North Dakota's state leadership came together today to thank nearly 350 members of the South Dakota Army National Guard for their service here during the flood.
"You, in South Dakota, are really good friends, people we can count on," North Dakota Gov. John Hoeven told the three company formations from South Dakota. "I don't think any of us ever doubted that … and from all of us we want to say thank you."
The South Dakota Guard was called up a week ago last Thursday through the Emergency Management Assistance Compact.
"South Dakota responded within minutes, and I know some of you got the call in the middle of the night and you were at the armory by 7 in the morning," said Maj. Gen. David Sprynczynatyk, the North Dakota Adjutant General. "That made a huge difference in our ability to fight the flood and prevent the loss of lives and property."
He presented commander's coins of appreciation to about 40 South Dakota Soldiers and told them they all also would receive the Federal Humanitarian Service Medal and the State Emergency Service Ribbon.
Fargo Mayor Dennis Walaker thanked the Soldiers for their assistance, as well, saying, "I hope everyone goes back and understands completely how much you are appreciated."
The units have completed their duty today and will leave the state.
Dr. Tim Mahoney, Fargo's deputy mayor, and Pat Zavoral, Fargo's city administrator, were also on hand to say thank you.
"One thing I've learned is you don't take knives to a gun fight, and you don't fight floods without the Guard," Mahoney said.