GRAND FORKS, N.D. – The University of North Dakota athletic department unveiled the Memorial Stadium Monument in Memorial Village. The monument is to honor the legacy of the UND students who left campus to serve the United States in World War I and never returned. The unveiling of the new memorial ensures that their memory continues.

The ceremony commenced with the presentation of the flags by the American Legion and the playing of the National Anthem performed by Joel Ness, assistant professor of engineering.


President Andy Armacost kicked off the ceremony with opening remarks and shared the significance of the monument.

"This new monument, standing proudly marking the corner of the historic Memorial Stadium site, pays tribute to the courage, commitment, and character of those young men, but also all the athletes (football, track, and field), alumni, and fans who poured their pride into this university at this site," said Armacost.
He then shared the details of the structure and how it reflects a profound respect for both military tradition and UND's role as the flagship university for North Dakota.

Steve Burian, Memorial Village LLC Partner, shared insight on the artwork's installation and support. "At the heart of the design are vertical pillars of thick, solid granite — each standing tall to represent the timeless strength of those who served," said Burian. "These pillars are not simply structural. They are symbolic — each one representing a core value of our service members: Loyalty. Respect. Service. Courage. Honor. And most importantly, Sacrifice."

Tim Belmore, UND AAF Associate Athletic Director of Major Gifts, spoke next to give thanks to donors and expressed the importance of honoring those before us and the legacy they left.

"Today we continue the legacy of remembrance with the dedication of this new artwork," said Belmore. "It is more than a tribute; it is a promise. A promise that we will never forget those who gave their lives in service to something greater than themselves. Their courage shaped this university's history, and their memory continues to inspire generations of students."

Amacost then spoke on the time capsule that will be placed inside the monument to be opened in 50 years. Inside will contain the last flag to fly over the stadium, the 1921 Dakota Annual that featured the 33 soldiers, an original ticket from the first game in 1927, an official game football from our football program, a handwritten note from President Armacost to the future president, and other items that represent the sign of the times.  


He then closed the ceremony reading off the names of those memorialized in the granite statue, followed by taps played by Joel Ness.

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