32nd Engineers National Guard unit of Onalaska needs help for huge July reunion

A reunion set for July in Onalaska is going to be one for the ages — for many ages, in fact.

The 32nd Engineers National Guard unit out of Onalaska is one that dates back to the 1960s.

One vet’s wife, Melissa Riniker, has been working for three years to bring everyone from the unit together this summer.

Over 400 names are on the list. That could more than double, if work keeps spreading.

“Could be in the thousands if you think, way back in the day, you could enlist for four years and get out,” veteran Dave Larsen said. “When you count up all of those, over all those decades, it could easily be in the thousands.”

Larsen, veterans Heath Riniker and Jeff Mills, along with Melissa Riniker, were in the WIZM studio last week to try and spread the word. (Listen here)

They also had a few stories of their own to tell.

“A lot of good ole’ stories when you get a bunch of army guys together,” veteran Dave Larsen said, thinking of how many stories might be told at the July 20 reunion.

Larsen said the 32nd Engineers had seven names, and was renamed to different company and assigned with a different battalion in 2007. It dates back to 1967 and veterans have taken part in everything from the Vietnam War and Desert Storm to the wars in Iraq, Afghanistan and some are still fighting today.

In compiling the list, Heath Riniker — a combat medic who served in the 32nd Engineers from 1986-2012 — has already witnessed stories being shared, as veterans from decades ago recognize others on the list.

With little time left, they’re still looking for to spread the word. If you have any information in how to get in touch with veterans from the unit or of someone who does, they’d like you to email [email protected]

They’re also looking to raise money for the event. There’s a GoFundMe here. Or just send an email asking how to donate.

The July 20 reunion will take place at the Onalaska American Legion Post 336.