MINNEAPOLIS — Thursday, Aug. 14, will be a day Julie Engdahl of Alexandria, a veteran who served nearly 30 years in the U.S. Army, will probably never forget.

It was on this day in front of thousands of people and numerous family members, that Engdahl raised the flag at Target Field in Minneapolis before the start of a Minnesota Twins game.

"Raising the flag and also the singing of the National Anthem is an emotional experience for me," Engdahl said in an email to the newspaper. "I served for nearly 30 years, and I am proud of my service. Having 24 members of my family join me made it all the more significant. The reality of military service is that much of it happens away from those you love. Having my family share in the experience made it even more special."

Engdahl said her sister

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