The Cass County Commission is proud to announce the launch of a new tradition, inviting individuals from our community to lead the Pledge of Allegiance at the first Commission meeting of each month. This initiative is designed to recognize individuals who have made a significant impact through public service, leadership, or community involvement.

At Monday’s Commission meeting, the Board was honored to welcome Major General (Ret.) Keith Bjerke as the inaugural guest to lead the Pledge.

General Bjerke brings a lifetime of distinguished service to North Dakota and the nation. A graduate of North Dakota State University, he served as an infantry officer in the U.S. Marine Corps from 1961 to 1964. His long and impactful career includes roles as Adjutant General of the North Dakota National Guard, where he was promoted to Major General in 1996, and as head of the national Agriculture Stabilization and Conservation Service, leading a workforce of 40,000 employees from 1989 to 1993.

General Bjerke’s civic leadership extends beyond military and government service. He has served on the boards of the Federal Reserve Bank of Minneapolis and the Minneapolis Grain Exchange and held the position of President of World Perspective Services. At NDSU, he served as Vice President for University Relations from 2001 to 2011, where he guided legislative affairs and community outreach. He was inducted into the Military Hall of Valor in 2011.

“The Commission feels this is a way to honor our great county and people in our community who help make Cass County an exceptional place to live, work and raise a family,” said Commission Vice-chair Tim Flakoll. “Keith Bjerke is a patriotic man who has been a great role model with a strong moral compass. He has given a lifetime of service to our community, state and country and we were excited to have him lead the pledge to begin this tradition.”

The Cass County Commission invites the public to submit suggestions for other individuals who would be fitting to lead the Pledge of Allegiance at future meetings. Suggestions can be sent to pio@casscountynd.gov.