On Saturday Sept. 28, the National Academy of Television Arts and Sciences Upper Midwest Emmys honored Luke Heikkila from Twin Cities Public Television, the Minnesota Department of Veterans Affairs and the Minnesota National Guard with the 2013 Board of Governors award. Over the last seven years this partnership has showcased the bravery, sacrifice and service of our Veterans and Military, including the documentaries Home and Hope and Home for Heroes. On behalf of Veterans across the state and nation, thank you to Luke and the TPT team for your dedication to the Veterans story here in Minnesota.

"Home for Heroes" is a documentary which gives viewers a rare look at the five Minnesota Veterans Homes. Minnesota has a large population of aging Veterans; therefore the MDVA is committed to finding new and innovative ways, like this video, to raise awareness of our Veterans Homes and the services we offer to eligible Veterans and their families.

In "Home for Heroes" we go behind the scenes with Veterans Homes Residents and their families as they share their personal experiences and stories. The program shows the struggle families often experience as they make the difficult decision to move their loved one to a long-term care facility, the admissions process, as well as a look at daily life for Residents. Residents speak of a renewed sense of dignity in a unique environment, which emphasizes gratitude and honor for their military service. They also find a sense of community at the Homes, as they are surrounded by peers who have shared similar experiences.

You can watch a portion of Home for Heroes below.