Area man is using patriotic signs to send a message

RANDOLPH — Neil Bloomquist has been taking steps to remind people about the important role veterans play in our lives.

Bloomquist is partially responsible for signs that have been appearing around the area, which remind people to thank a veteran.

Signs showing the words “Love Freedom – Thank a Vet,” with a flag in the background, display an important message.

“We need to keep patriotism alive. We need to honor our veterans,” Bloomquist said. “The signs are good – it just takes a second to read.”

One of the patriotic signs is posted on the side of the building at Jerry’s Hilltop, another can be seen on the building at Randolph Farm Supply along Hwy 20, and a sign will be posted in the Pleasant Valley area, west of Hartington. Bloomquist has also placed a sign at the end of his lane out on his farm place.

The signs have been bringing in money for fund raisers. One sign was sold at an auction to raise money for the restoration of the Randolph City Auditorium. The sign, which had been donated, brought $1,400. Travelers can view this sign as they near Jerry’s Hilltop.

Randolph Farm Supply received one of the signs in return for a donation in the amount of $1,000 which will be used for the restoration of the Veteran’s Park in Randolph.

Bloomquist has been told the sign has attracted a lot of attention from local people and from travelers.

“There have been a lot of good comments about the sign. People have even been taking pictures of it,” Bloomquist said.

Bloomquist donated a sign to the Sons of American Legion, Osmond, which was also auctioned off.

The four by eight foot signs, which are made in Norfolk, can be displayed on the outside of buildings or mounted on posts.

“They are constructed from durable material and will last a long time,” Bloomquist said.

“We want to get more signs out there. This is for a good cause — that is what this is about.”

The Bloomquist family understands the importance of serving in the military.

Neil Bloomquist served two years in the Army toward the end of the Korean War and was deployed to Germany. One of his brothers served in the military during World War II and another brother was in the National Guard.

Three of Bloomquist’s sons served in the Air Force, one son was in the Navy and three of his daughters-in-law are in the military.

The sons are now retired, although two of them are working on a base.

Greg served in the military for 26 years; Jeff, 22 years; Dan and Chuck both served 24 years.

One son has been to 139 countries. Another son was a flight engineer with the crew who traveled with the President.

“When the kids get together they have a lot to talk about,” Bloomquist said. “They all loved what they were doing.”

Bloomquist has several grandsons who are also serving in the military which includes the Marines, Air Force and National Guard.

History proves that freedom is not free. When push comes to shove, the ultimate protectors of freedom and liberty are the brave men and women in the armed forces. Throughout the history of the United States, they have answered the call with bravery and sacrifice.

Remember to thank a veteran – for your freedom.