In partnership with the Veterans Coordination Commission, we are pleased to present the January, 2005 Veteran of the Month – Graydon “Chip” Elverud.

A native of Volga, South Dakota, Graydon Elverud joined the South Dakota National Guard in 1964 and was assigned to the 741st Transportation Unit in Brookings in 1966. He graduated from Lake Area Vocational Institute in Watertown in 1970 and transferred to the Naval Reserve Construction Battalion Unit, 15th Battalion. In 1974, Chip transferred to the Kansas City Naval Reserve to complete further training during which time he was promoted to Petty Officer 2nd Class. His duty assignment included selection as Safety Chief Petty Officer and Lead Maintenance Petty Officer. In 1979, Chip was assigned to the Naval Air Station in Chicago and attached to the 2nd Regiment comprising of the 15th and 25th Battalions. During this time, he was equipment inspector to the detachments in Sioux Falls, Sioux City, Des Moines, Lincoln, Omaha and St. Joseph and promoted to Petty Officer 1st Class.

In 1986, Chip was assigned to the National Staff of Naval Cargo Handling Forces in Williamsport, Virginia. He traveled two weekends a month from Rapid City to Williamsport to complete Naval drill. He was called to active duty in Desert Shield and Desert Storm. In 1991, Chip was released from duty to the National Staff of Naval Cargo Handling and remained at this duty until his retirement in 1994.

Chip was in the Army National Guard and Naval Reserve for almost thirty years attaining the rank of Chief Petty Officer. His military decorations and awards include Reserve Meritorious Service medal with 4 Stars, National Defense medal and Naval Battle (E) with a Star and construction Battalion (CB Warfare award). Chip holds current memberships in American Legion Post 22, 40 & 8 Voiture 658 of Rapid City, TREA Chapter 29 of Rapid City and the Fleet Reserve. He participates in TREA parades and Honor Guard activities. As a retired veteran, he is a true advocate of Veteran’s rights and benefits “Standing up for the Veteran” as a civilian and a member of the community.

Chip is married to Karen and they have three girls; Heide & Thomas Chandler and their family, Tami & James William III and their family, and Trinity. They are involved with church activities at Calvary Lutheran Church. Chip is President of the Black Hills Volk-march Association, past chairman of the Crazy Horse Volk-march, and a member of the TRISTATE Navy Chiefs Association. He started the State Antique Plowing Contest over twenty-five years ago and has competed at national level four different times. Chip has worked with Butler Machinery Caterpillar dealership for the past thirty-five years.