Temporary Becker County veteran services officer sworn-in

Detroit Lakes, Minn. (KDLM) – A temporary Becker County Veteran Services Officer was sworn-in Tuesday morning to replace the current office holder as he prepares to go on deployment early next year.

Donovan Strandberg, of Audubon, is a 23-year veteran of the Minnesota Army National Guard and will take over for current veterans services officer, Matt Erickson, when he deploys with his Minnesota National Guard unit to the middle east in early 2024.

During the meeting Strandberg introduced himself to the commissioners.

“I’ve been living in lakes country for almost 20 years,” said Strandberg. “23 years in the National Guard. I work full-time at the Armory across the street. And just glad to be able to help to continue this service for our veterans.”

Following the swearing-in ceremony, commissioners congratulated Strandberg and then publicly thanked Matt Erickson for his work with the county, wishing him well as he prepares to deploy.

Erickson said Strandberg will be shadowing him over the next few months to ensure a smooth transition of veterans stewardship in Becker County. Erickson is expected to resume his role when he returns from deployment.