Richard Milda and his daughter, Deanna, on last year’s ride. Photo courtesy Richard Milda
Dakota 38+2 Memorial Ride set to kickoff
By Richie Richards
Native Sun News Staff Writer LOWER BRULE –– Beginning on Dec. 9, at the Lower Brule Rodeo Grounds Coral, the annual Dakota 38+2 Memorial Ride will begin the 330 mile journey on horseback and end on Dec. 26, at the Reconciliation Memorial Park in Mankato, Minn. This memorial ride is to honor the 38+2 Native Americans hanged as a result of the Dakota War of 1862. These executions were ordered by President Abraham Lincoln and carried out on Dec. 26, 1862. This is a monumental task and journey to bring dedicated riders and the “Spirit Horse” (representing the many ancestors who died during the Indian wars) over such a long distance in the middle of winter. The ride will travel through the following communities and townships along the way; Ft. Thompson, Gann Valley, Wessington Springs, Forestburg, Howard, Madison, Flandreau, all located in South Dakota. From there they will travel in to Minnesota through; Pipestone, Russell, Vesta, Morton, Ft. Ridgely, Courtland, Land of Memories and arriving at Reconciliation Memorial Park in Mankota. Richard Milda, a memorial rider and coordinator for 6 years, said there is a strong need for gas money, meals and possibly lodging along the way. Milda and his family bring horses and a horse trailer for the ride. He said, “My family has chosen to do the ride and make the sacrifice throughout the year to support the cause. We survive off buffalo meat for a majority of the time- including roasts, steaks, and sausage for breakfasts to be able to afford this ride in December. My kids are dedicated as well, knowing they will not have a traditional Christmas each year. Instead we will be on the ride.” Milda has managed to save two thousand dollars of his own money for the 2014 Dakota 38+2 Memorial Ride. Although many donations have come from community centers, churches, halls, citizens, and casinos along the way, the Dakota 38+2 Memorial Ride continues to seek support. The American Indian Institute is the fiscal agent with 501(c) 3 status. Donations can be made by check, credit card, PayPal or by wire transfer. For more information please contact Eric Noyes of the American Indian Institute at (406) 587-1002 or to attain financial documentation, donation letters or end of the event financial information please email Michelle Mills at MzWinona@gmail.com. Donations can be made in memoriam to honor relatives and friends. A pouch will be carried by riders with the names and/or pictures of loved ones who have passed. These names will be read at the closing ceremony and burned to so they can rise up to the spirit world. (We will have full story and photos next week) (Contact Richie Richards staffwriter@nsweekly.com) Copyright permission Native Sun News
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