On Memorial Day we honor those who gave all in service to their country. Unfortunately, a northeastern Montana park dedicated to veterans has been closed off by Austin Knudsen and his family for years.

In 1944 a generous family donated a park to the American Legion. The park is located along the Missouri River near Culbertson. For a long time Legion Park was the site for the American Legion gatherings, Boy Scout activities, and school recreation.

Years ago, Knudsen and his family acquired land around the park and blocked access to the park. The community has tried to work with the Knudsens to access to the park, unsuccessfully. According to a member of the American Legion in Culbertson, "The American Legion organized a community fundraiser to raise money to make improvements to the park to open up access to it with the support of the town. That led to litigation, which continues to this day."

Read more about the issue: https://missoulian.com/opinion/columnists/knudsen-closed-access-to-veterans-park/article_22cbe937-fd50-5d17-818b-9858c928d429.html

Mr. Knudsen, end the shutdown and help us honor our veterans this Memorial Day by allowing access to the Legion Park!