Gunderson receives Quilt of Valor at County Fair
Gunderson Honored With Quilt of Valor
Three veterans were wrapped in gratitude Saturday, Aug. 8, as they received Quilts of Valor at the Clearwater County Fair. Gladys Leuken of the Headwaters Quilt Guild led the presentation honoring their service and sacrifice.
Leuken said that since November 2023, 74 quilts have been awarded to Clearwater County veterans and active-duty military personnel. Guild members look forward to wrapping even more area veterans and service members in Quilts of Valor in the future.
The first veteran honored was Adam Gunderson. He enlisted in the Minnesota National Guard in 1997 and retired in 2018 with the rank of E-6, completing more than two decades of military service.
During his military career, Gunderson completed two overseas deployments in support of operations in Bosnia and Iraq. Those experiences reinforced the values of discipline, teamwork and mission-focused leadership that continue to guide his approach to public service today.
While deployed in Iraq, Gunderson earned the Combat Infantryman Badge, one of the Army’s most respected combat awards. The badge is awarded to infantry soldiers who are present under hostile fire and actively participate in ground combat while engaging, or being engaged by, the enemy. The honor reflects Gunderson’s direct participation in combat operations and recognizes his courage and dedication under fire.
Gunderson’s service was recognized through numerous personal decorations, campaign medals and service awards, including the Army Commendation Medal, Second Award; Army Achievement Medal, Second Award; Army Good Conduct Medal; Army Reserve Components Achievement Medal; Armed Forces Expeditionary Medal; Global War on Terrorism Service Medal; Iraq Campaign Medal; Armed Forces Reserve Medal with “M” Device, Second Award; NATO Medal; Combat Infantryman Badge; Driver and Mechanic Badge with Driver-Wheeled Vehicles Clasp; Army Service Ribbon; Overseas Service Ribbon; and Overseas Service Medal.
Together, these honors reflect a military career distinguished by combat service, leadership, professionalism and a steadfast commitment to serving his nation and fellow soldiers.
Throughout his military career, Gunderson served in a variety of leadership positions. He ultimately served as a platoon sergeant with the 1st Battalion, 194th Armor Regiment Sustainment Program. In that role, he trained and mentored more than 2,000 enlisted soldiers preparing for military service. He also served for three years as a senior instructor for the Minnesota National Guard Officer Candidate School, helping prepare the next generation of military leaders.
Gunderson’s commitment to serving others continued through his career in law enforcement. He began in 2001 as a patrol officer with the Perham and Henning police departments. He was later appointed police chief of the Royalton Police Department.
In 2009, Gunderson became police chief for the city of Menahga. In 2023, he was appointed police chief for the city of Bagley, where he continues to lead the department with a focus on accountability, transparency and public trust.
Gunderson was nominated to receive a Quilt of Valor by Clarence LaCroix, a fellow Minnesota National Guard member. The nomination added a personal connection to an honor recognizing Gunderson’s many years of service to his country and community.
Gunderson is also a proud member of American Legion Irvin Blix Post 16.