May 28, 2026 (Cover photo credit: BCVMA)
Pocatello–On Memorial Day, members of the community gathered at the recently-restored Bannock County Veterans Memorial Building to remember those who gave their lives in service to the country, and to celebrate the 100th Anniversary of the building’s opening.
In her opening remarks, Building President Teresa Vialpando first acknowledged the sacrifice of America’s fallen warriors. “Their courage gave us the freedoms we enjoy today,” she said, “and their memory deserves not just our gratitude, but our continued respect and remembrance.” She also highlighted the Memorial Building’s function as “a gathering place for families, veterans, neighbors, celebrations, dances, meetings, and memorials. Generations of this community have walked through these doors.”
Ms. Vialpando then introduced District Judge Rick Carnaroli, who presides over Bannock County’s Veterans Treatment Court. Judge Carnaroli shared the history of the building and the contributions of those community members who made its construction possible. Initially, it was proposed that the American Legion build a log club house on this site; the community instead determined to build an impressive memorial in honor of all American servicemen, intended to become “the patriotic civic center of the city.” Architect Frank Paradice designed the building, and is said to have been the largest individual contributor toward the construction costs. In closing, the judge expressed his pride in the community’s continued support for veterans and for the Veterans Building, stating that “this is not just any old building. It is the civic focal point and a symbol that this community has its heart in the right place…This building remains and continues to serve as a constant reminder of the sacrifices of those men and women who went out to die that we might be free.”
The afternoon’s second speaker, Building Historian Miguel Dominic, focused his remarks on the Memorial Building’s unique and beautiful structure, and on the historical artifacts it contains. “The Bannock County Veterans Memorial Building remains a powerful symbol of remembrance and community,” he said. “Built through the collective efforts of local citizens and sustained by generations that followed, it continues to honor military service while serving as a place where history, memory, and community meet.”
Following the speeches, Daughters of the American Revolution representatives Sandi Kinney and Beth Kauffman presented Teresa Vialpando and Miguel Dominic with Historic Preservation Committee awards for Excellence in Historic Preservation.
Senator Mike Crapo’s regional director, Farhana Hibbert, read a Joint Statement from Sen. Crapo, Sen. Jim Risch, and Congressman Mike Simpson recognizing the Memorial Building’s 100th Anniversary. She then presented Teresa Vialpando with the signed statement as it appeared in Vol. 172 No. 74 of the Congressional Record.
Finally, Dani Patrick of the Bannock County Veteran Services Office read a poem titled “To the Soldier from the Flag.”
Teresa Vialpando closed the ceremony with thanks to those in attendance, and a wish for the Memorial Building’s legacy to “continue strong for the next hundred years.”
