BELLE FOURCHE—Belle Fourche, the Center of the Nation, kicked off the countdown to the 250th birthday of America—marking 100 days until we reach America’s birthday, July 4, 2026. The community came together to honor and celebrate the momentous occasion by holding the South Dakota 250th Flag Raising Ceremony at the Tri-State Museum and Center of the Nation Visitor Center.
On March 26, the South Dakota flag was lowered, and the South Dakota Commemorative 250th Flag was added underneath and raised back up, signaling the official start of the countdown to the last 100 days before the nation’s historic birthday.
The Belle Fourche VFW Post 312 handled the flag-raising honors. “Well, South Dakota, as I understand, is the first to come up with a commemorative flag for the United States, 250th anniversary—the first state. There are other states that are looking into it as well, but we’re the first state to have one officially produced,” explained Blaine Anderson with VFW Post 312. “It’s going to fly under the State flag.”
Mayor Randy Schmidt welcomed the community to the event and gave some background information about the area and the state.
Everyone then joined together to recite the Pledge of Allegiance.
Pastor Tim Smith from the First Baptist Church provided the invocation. “We gather here today with grateful hearts that we stand together in community, united in purpose and pride for our country,” he said. “…As we begin this countdown to 250 years of our nation’s independence, we ask for your continued guidance. Lord, grant us wisdom as we lead, strength as we serve, and humility as we remember those who gave so much so that we could stand here today.”
A beautiful rendition of the National Anthem was sung by Belle Fourche High School student Autsey Stiefvater.
Brian Aspen, school social worker, discussed the significance of being at the Center of the Nation, where the Nation’s flag, South Dakota’s flag, and POW/MIA flag fly every day as a reminder of who we are and what we stand for, and that even though Belle Fourche is a small town, it is part of something much bigger. “In 100 days, the United States will celebrate 250 years of Independence—that’s 250 years of grit, sacrifice, bravery, and a deep love to this day. That legacy wasn’t built all at once; it was built over time by people willing to stand up, step forward, and believe in something greater than themselves. Today is one of those moments where we pause and then we move forward,” he said.
Troy McKenney, Chuck Lawless, Blaine Anderson, Nick Jackson, and Dan Noss from the VFW Post 312 helped raise the SD 250th Commemorative Flag.
Aspen thanked everyone for coming. “Thank you for joining us today right here in the Center of the Nation. We’ve taken part in something meaningful—kicking off the countdown to America’s 250th birthday! We’re excited for what’s ahead and look forward to celebrating the Fourth of July right here in Belle Fourche…thank you for coming, and God Bless America.”
The 100 days to America’s 250th birthday countdown event, leading to July 4, 2026, was sponsored by the City of Belle Fourche and Visit Belle Fourche.
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