Southern Ute Veterans Association members Rod Grove and Howard Richards Sr. receive an award at VFW post 4031 in Durango, Colo. for their dedication and support of veterans, Monday, March 18.

The Veterans of Foreign Wars (VFW) award presented to the Southern Ute Veterans Association reads: “Your steadfast support of your nation, tribe, veterans and warriors is an example of patriotism to emulate.” According to Association Commander, Howard Richards Sr., the relationship with Southern Ute Veterans and the VFW goes back 33 years and first began with ties to the American Legion in Ignacio, Colo.