A while ago, we ran an article about conservation officer Trent Seamans. Seamans is a veteran who decided to settle down in the community after his military career and serve as a conservation officer.

After reading this, one of our readers, Stefan Bloom, reached out to me to tell me about his brother-in-law, Cass Rademacher, who has a similar story.

“Cass is a great brother in law and a very loving godfather to my daughter,” Bloom said. “He’s a positive role model in our society. He is also extremely calm and collected under pressure. Lastly, he’s an extremely humble veteran and deputy who would never seek out recognition, yet deserves it nonetheless.”

Rademacher, from Zimmerman, served in the army for three years. He was stationed in Louisiana for most of that time, but was deployed into combat in Afghanistan once in 2016.

After leaving the military, Rademacher attended Mankato State University where he earned his Bachelor’s degree in law enforcement. Shortly afterwards, he was offered a position at the Sherburne County Sheriff’s office.

Rademacher has been working as a deputy for about a year now. He said he never imagined that he would end up back in the same county where he grew up, not after all the traveling he did while in the Army. Nevertheless, he loves serving the community. He told me that, when he was given the opportunity, he thought there was no better place to be than the community where he was raised. He loves being able to help the people of Big Lake when they need it the most.

“When people call, it’s not because it’s their birthday and they’re excited,” Rademacher said. “People are having their worst moments, and I want to do whatever I can to make their situation better.”

I think it’s amazing that some people, like Rademacher, do anything they can to serve others. Not only did he risk his life for his country while in the military, but he continues to do so every day for the people in our community.

As we approach the Christmas season, I want to thank Cass Rademacher, along with all of our veterans, police officers, and first responders for keeping us safe. Christmas is about celebrating the life of one man who gave his life to protect all the people he loves, and I’m so grateful that spirit lives on in those who serve the community. God bless all of you, and Merry Christmas!