The U.S. Congress approved the designation of May 1, 1955 as "Loyalty Day" because of the efforts of the VFW, and with further effort, the official recognition of that day was adopted in 1958.

Sine then, every effort has been made to observe the day by VFW posts and auxiliaries and the public is encouraged to in some way show their pride in being American.

The North Branch Auxiliary to Post #6424 observed the day at the North Branch primary, elementary, middle and high school, and this year also at at Trinity Christian School.

At the high school they presented awards for the annual patriotic art contest participated in by students in Mr. Moriarity's art classes.

First place went to Lauren LaRue, second to Brandon Kvale, third to Madeline Rindahl.

At the middle school, they awarded first place to 6th-grader Caleb Larson for his entry in the fall Americanism contest. His essay had been sent to the district competition and he was given a monetary award and a certificate of participation.

At the Primary School, Faith Pleske received first place and there was a tie for second place between Eric Braun and Faith DeMars. Julia Inman of Trinity Christian School and Grace Bena tied for third place.

The first graders had drawn pictures of a symbol of America. Kate DeVault received a certificate for second place in the 7th District in last fall's Americanism contest.

Second graders also drew symbols of America. First place went to Katie Rezac, second to Aurea Wek and third to Natalie Steffenson.

Hannah Thoen earned second place in the 7th District fall Americanism contest.

At the Sunrise River School, 4th graders drew pictures depicting a loyal citizen or activity. Fifth graders wrote essays about something or someone who depicted a loyal citizen. In 4th grade, first place went to Newell Fisk, second to Samantha Coswell and third place to Avery Kraemer. In 5th grade, first place went to Tony Denn, second to Rachel Swenson and third to Tyler Landers.

Sandy Fernow, 4th grade, was given a certificate and prize for placing second in the 7th District fall contest and Alex Fitcha received a certificate for 2nd place with his essay in the 7th District fall contest.

There were many honorable mentions in all age groups.