Inspiring Veteran, Paralympian, Author, Speaking in Sioux Falls

An evening of inspiration awaits Sioux Falls this Friday, April 5th, as the South Dakota Military Heritage Alliance hosts wounded Army veteran, Purple Heart recipient, and Paralympian trailblazer Melissa Stockwell as the keynote speaker. Doors open at 5 PM, with the event beginning at 6 PM.

This special gathering, co-hosted by the DAV, VFW, and Women of the Armed Forces organizations, will benefit local veterans support programs through proceeds raised.

Stockwell's journey is one of resilience and determination in the face of adversity. While deployed to Iraq in March 2004, just three weeks into her tour, a roadside bomb struck her Humvee, resulting in the loss of her left leg above the knee. For her brave service, Stockwell became the first female soldier from Operation Iraqi Freedom to receive the Purple Heart and Bronze Star Medal.

Undeterred by her injuries, Stockwell forged a new path as a trailblazing Paralympian. In 2008, she made history by qualifying for the Beijing Paralympics – the first Iraq War veteran to do so. Her remarkable achievements continue today, as she has earned a coveted spot on the 2024 U.S. Paralympic Triathlon team headed to Paris.

Tickets to the event are $20 for general seating, or $45 including a signed copy of the book The Power of Choice by Melissa Stockwell.

The Military Heritage Alliance is located at 1600 W. Russell Street in Sioux Falls and for more information you can email questions to CMD@vfw628.org.