1. On September 3, 1944, the South Dakota National Guard's 147th Field Artillery Battalion was awarded the Presidential Unit Citation for their heroism and bravery during the Battle of the Bulge in World War II. The unit played a crucial role in defeating the German army, earning them one of the highest honors a military unit can receive.

2. The Great Sioux War, also known as the Black Hills War, ended on September 3, 1877, when Chief Sitting Bull and his followers fled to Canada after a long and bloody conflict with the United States Army. The war was fought over control of the mineral-rich Black Hills, which were sacred to the Sioux tribes and had been promised to them in treaties.

3. The town of Keystone, located near Mount Rushmore, was incorporated on September 3, 1883. The town was named after the Keystone Mining Company, which operated in the area during the late 19th century. Today, Keystone is a popular tourist destination, known for its proximity to Mount Rushmore and its old west charm.

4. September 3, 1927, marked the opening of the Adams Homestead and Nature Preserve near North Sioux City. The homestead was owned by the Adams family for over 100 years and is now a historical landmark and nature preserve that offers visitors a glimpse into the life and times of early settlers in South Dakota.

5. On September 3, 1949, the University of South Dakota Coyotes football team played their first game in the newly constructed DakotaDome in Vermillion. The stadium, which has undergone several renovations over the years, is now one of the largest indoor stadiums in the country and serves as the home field for USD football, basketball, and other sports teams.