Viterbo Honors Veterans With Annual Day Service
The university's Veterans Day service featured retired judge Todd Bjerke as its speaker and ended with a POW/MIA flag raising.
Updated on Nov. 12, 2026 in Military
Viterbo University held its annual Veterans Day service on November 11, 2026, at 11:11 a.m. in San Damiano Chapel. The public was invited, and the service was followed immediately by the raising of a POW/MIA flag in Assisi Courtyard.
Why it matters
The service recognizes the military service of veterans within the La Crosse community and on the university campus. It also highlights the role of local veterans in civic life, including the work of the La Crosse Area Veterans Court.
The service was held at 11:11 a.m. on November 11, 2026, with Todd Bjerke, a retired La Crosse County judge who served 30 years in the Army Reserve's Judge Advocate General's Corps, as featured speaker. Attendance figures and specific remarks from the event were not reported.
The players
Todd Bjerke
A U.S. Marine Corps veteran and retired La Crosse County Circuit Court judge who helped create the La Crosse Area Veterans Court.
Viterbo University
A private Catholic university in La Crosse, Wisconsin, that hosts an annual Veterans Day service and supports military-connected students.
The details
Students and veterans Micah Beise and Jared Tomten took part in the service, and Fr. Conrad Targonski, OFM, an assistant chaplain and veteran, gave the invocation. Bri Lawrence, the university's Military Student Success coordinator and a veteran, delivered the benediction.
Timeline
November 11, 2026, 11:11 a.m.: Viterbo University's annual Veterans Day service begins in San Damiano Chapel.
2007: Todd Bjerke begins serving as a La Crosse County Circuit Court judge.
2023: Bjerke retires from the La Crosse County Circuit Court.
Legal Context
The featured speaker, Todd Bjerke, helped create the La Crosse Area Veterans Court, a specialized local court serving veterans. His 30-year Army Reserve judge advocate career and years on the bench place the service within the wider La Crosse effort to connect veterans with legal and community support.
The service was open to the public, so community members who wish to honor veterans can attend similar events held in La Crosse. Residents interested in veterans' legal services can learn more about the La Crosse Area Veterans Court founded in part by Bjerke.
The takeaway
Local recognition events like Viterbo's service give residents a direct way to honor veterans and learn about the programs that support them in La Crosse. Attending or following these annual observances keeps the community connected to those who served.
Further reading
Explore more local coverage in the Military section for related veterans news.
Source note: This article includes information reported by News8000.
