BONNERS FERRY — For Rieda Sandel, military service has always been about something greater than herself. 

From the experiences that inspired her to join the Air Force more than 30 years ago to her role today as commander of Bonners Ferry Veterans of Foreign Wars Post 3622, that sense of service continues to shape her life. 

As Boundary County recognizes Veterans Day, Sandel hopes the occasion will encourage people not only to honor those who have served, but also to listen to their stories, understand their sacrifices and remember that the bonds formed through military service often last a lifetime. 

Sandel's own journey began with a childhood visit to an Air Force base, where her uncle, a now retired lieutenant colonel and fighter test pilot, introduced her to a world she had never experienced. 

Growing up in a small town, she was fascinated by the possibilities that military life offered. The visit left a lasting impression and, in 1995, she enlisted in the Air Force. 

"I knew there was more to the world than what my little small town had to offer, and I wanted to find it," Sandel said. 

During her service, she worked in a transportation squadron before becoming a paralegal in the Judge Advocate General's department. Beyond the career opportunities, her time in the military helped shape the values she would later pass along to her children, including the importance of pursuing their goals, respecting others and recognizing the freedoms military members serve to protect. 

Those lessons remain close to her heart, particularly on Veterans Day. 

For Sandel, Veterans Day brings a deep sense of gratitude and an opportunity to reflect on the men and women who have willingly accepted the responsibilities and sacrifices that come with serving their country. 

It is also a reminder of the importance of preserving their stories. 

Sandel speaks with admiration about the veterans she encounters throughout Boundary County, many of whom have experiences and memories that younger generations may never hear unless someone takes the time to ask. 

"They have so many stories and so much experience and so much history behind them," she said. 

That belief has become an important part of her work as VFW commander, a position she assumed in July. 

Although she had never led a VFW post before, Sandel said she stepped into the role with the support of fellow members who have helped her learn the responsibilities that come with it. 

"I have an amazing team behind me," she said. 

Together, they are working toward three goals that Sandel considers especially important: growing membership, involving young people, and strengthening the VFW's presence in the community. 

For her, increasing membership is about more than bringing people into an organization. It is about reaching veterans who may feel isolated or disconnected and reminding them that they are part of a community that understands what they have experienced. 

"I want to reach out to veterans so they feel like they've got family here because they absolutely do," she said. 

Sandel knows that reaching out is not always easy. Many veterans, she explained, are accustomed to putting the needs of others before their own and may be reluctant to talk about themselves or ask for help. 

That independence can also make it difficult for veterans to seek the support and companionship they need. 

The transition from military to civilian life can bring its own challenges, particularly for those who have spent years surrounded by fellow service members. 

"We're used to having somebody right next to us at all times, and then when you get out, it's like, hey, OK, I'm going to figure this out," Sandel said. "The transition is very hard." 

In a rural county where transportation and distance can create additional barriers, she believes it is especially important for veterans to know that local organizations are available to help them stay connected. 

Through the VFW, American Legion and Veterans Outreach Center, Sandel hopes more veterans will discover the camaraderie they may have been missing. 

"Between all of us, there is a sister or brother in arms who genuinely cares," she said. 

She described the connection between veterans as something that often exists even among complete strangers, a shared understanding that can make meeting another veteran feel like reconnecting with an old friend. 

While much of her attention is focused on supporting those who have already served, Sandel is equally passionate about reaching the next generation. 

Like her own visit to an Air Force base and its impact on her life, Sandel hopes local young people will have opportunities to learn about military service and the many paths available to them. 

The VFW has connected with the local Civil Air Patrol as part of its efforts to involve youth, and Sandel believes bringing students into veterans' activities helps build understanding between generations. 

"If we don't share these experiences and share these options with them, a lot gets lost over the years," she said. 

As Veterans Day ceremonies bring people together to recognize the service and sacrifice of military members, Sandel hopes the appreciation extends beyond the holiday itself. 

Whether through sharing a story, attending a community gathering or simply reaching out to a fellow veteran, she believes those connections make a difference. 

For veterans who may be hesitant to take that first step, she wants them to know they do not have to face life's challenges alone. 

"I wish that they were able to reach out to us because we're here for them," Sandel said. 

Connecting with local veterans

Bonners Ferry VFW Post 3622 meets the second Tuesday of each month at 6 p.m. 

The American Legion meets the second Thursday of each month at 6 p.m. at Memorial Hall at the Boundary County Fairgrounds. 

The Veterans Outreach Center also hosts an informal Friday morning gathering at 7:30 a.m. at Chic-N-Chop, offering veterans an opportunity to enjoy breakfast, coffee and conversation without a formal meeting. 

Sandel encourages local veterans to attend these gatherings, meet others who have served and become part of the community of support available throughout Boundary County. 

Veterans Day ceremonies throughout Boundary County were scheduled for Wednesday, Nov. 11, after the Bonners Ferry Herald's deadline for this edition. Coverage of local observances is planned for the upcoming edition.