Marcella Ryan LeBeau to present “World War II Experiences & Fool Soldier Band History” at Crazy Horse Memorial
Marcella Ryan LeBeau will present “World War II Experiences & Fool Soldier Band History” on Thursday, July 23rd at 6 p.m. during the free Thursday Night Summer Performance & Lecture Series at Crazy Horse Memorial.
Marcella Ryan LeBeau is a World War II veteran and member of the Two Kettle Lakota of the Cheyenne River Sioux Tribe. She served as a nurse in World War II, becoming a 1st Lieutenant in the Army Nurse Corps.
Marcella was inducted into the South Dakota Hall of Fame in 2006 in the category of Professional. She was born in Promise, S.D., and is a descendant of Joseph Four Bear. Marcella was one of 100 U.S. World War II veterans to receive the French Legion of Honor Award in 2004 in Paris, at the 60th anniversary of D-Day. Her service in the Army took her to Wales, England, France and Belgium. She has spoken at many veterans’ events about her military experience in World War II.
Marcella is a founding member of the North American Indian Women’s Association. She retired as the director of nursing from her career of 31 years at Indian Health Services in Eagle Butte. She raised a family of eight children and is an advocate for the Lakota language and culture, youth, veterans, elderly, upholding treaties, and wellness.
There will be free admission to Crazy Horse Memorial for those attending this education program, with a suggested donation of 3 cans of food per person for the KOTA Care & Share Food Drive. After the program please take the time to tour the complex and stay for the spectacular laser light show at dark.
On July 30th, the 2009 Summer Performance & Lecture Series will feature Faye Longbrake, presenting “Lakota Family History.”
For more information about the free Thursday night Summer Performance & Lecture Series, contact Anne Ziolkowski at (605) 673-4681.