Several of the 1st Platoon survivors believe the final chapter of the Renegade Woods story is incomplete. They believe Satch and two others were never properly recognized for their valor in combat.
I spoke to Satch on the return drive.“ I have to say something that you might think is stupid, but I need to thank you for your service!”
Satch laughed.“ The actual first time I heard that was a trip to Washington, D. C., 18 months ago paid for by In Honor of Our Troops.”
JUDGE INVESTITURE
The formal investiture ceremony for Northeast Judicial District Judge Ashley Samuelson was held on Feb. 10 at the Ramsey County Courthouse.
Photos provided by the State of North Dakota Courts
“ Well, I certainly now understand why you were not too intimidated by the law school experience!”
He laughed again.“ Once you have been shot a few times, you are not too worried about being embarrassed about briefing a case!”
Satch died February 5, 2026.
Judge Samuelson was sworn in by Judge Lonnie Olson. Judge Ashley Samuelson
Thank you Satch for your service, for making our first year of law school tolerable, and for being our friend.
Judge Ashley Samuelson, center front, with Northeast Judicial District Judges, left to right, Lonnie Olson, Donovan Foughty, Barbara Whelan, Michael Hurly, Anthony Benson, and Kari Agotness.
2026 SBAND High School Mock Trial Competition
The State Bar Association of North Dakota( SBAND) hosted its annual High School Mock Trial Competition on March 28. Talented high school students from across the state showcased their legal knowledge and skills. Teams from Alexander High School, Oak Grove Lutheran High School, West Fargo Sheyenne High School( two teams), and Stanley High School competed in the mock trials, demonstrating their understanding of the American legal system.
The SBAND High School Mock Trial Program is an exciting and educational initiative designed to introduce students to the intricacies of the legal system. Students gain invaluable experience by working alongside experienced attorneys and judges, learning firsthand about trial procedures and legal principles.
The SBAND High School Mock Trial Program continues to provide students
2026 SBAND HIGH SCHOOL MOCK TRIAL COMPETITION TEAM WINNERS:
with invaluable experiences that will serve them well in their future academic and professional pursuits. This competition not only helps prepare students for careers in law but also fosters critical thinking and teamwork that are essential in all aspects of life.
The winning team advances to the 2026 National Championship in Des Moines, Iowa, May 7-9.
First Place: Oak Grove Lutheran School
• Teacher: Aubrey Zuger
• Attorney Coach: Peter Zuger
Second Place: Alexander High School
• Teacher: Amber Severson
• Attorney Coach: Judge Daniel El-Dweek
Third Place: West Fargo Sheyenne High School – Orange Team
• Teacher: Mrs. Homuth
• Attorney Coaches: Adam Justinger, Kylee Carlin and Nathan Severson
SPRING 2026 19