It`s only fitting that the new bridge, which is in honor of veterans, was dedicated on Veterans Day.

Members of the military say the bridge inspired by Veterans of World War I, will create a place for all veterans and those currently enlisted to reflect on their service.

Ferdinand Luger, or "Red" to those who know him, served with the Army in World War II in 1942. He says he remembers well his time in combat in Africa and Italy and being at the bridge dedication brings back some of those memories.

"The Germans would stay in the monastery and fire at the infantry," Luger says.

The new bridge is inspired by veterans like "Red." On the west end of the bridge eleven spires symbolize the Armistice, which is the peace agreement reached at the eleventh hour of the eleventh day in the eleventh month of 1918 to end World War I.

"People will be able to come and reflect and recognize that people fight for our freedom and put their lives on the line and North Dakotans do that so well," says Maj. Gen. David Sprynczynatyk, of the ND National Guard.

In addition to the spires, five overlooks on the south side of the bridge each represent and recognize the service branches of the United States Military… Army, Marine Corp., Navy, Air Force, and Coast Guard. The old Memorial Bridge which opened in 1922 was also dedicated to Veterans of World War I. It was meant to be a symbol of something that would stand forever after a turbulent time in history. Red says it`s an honor for the bridge to be dedicated to him and the men who served beside him.

"It makes me feel good. It`s a beautiful bridge," Luger says. "I knew the old one for a long time."