April is the "Month of the Military Child." The focus is on the impact of extensive deployments placed on our military families. While the focus is on the child, I want to focus specifically on the spouse.

Ever since 9/11/01 Minnesota has sent its sons and daughters to all corners of the world. Minnesotans have responded through such avenues as the Beyond the Yellow Programs, random acts of kindness, and genuine concern. The families have been resilient and collectively supported one another also during the trying times of deployments.

What concerns me now is the raise of 'post war' attitudes that diminish the service of the Veteran and their family and specifically the spouses who are now left to care for the returning Veteran.

Their contributions are immeasurable. They helped in healing the emotional and physical wounds of war. They kept the family whole ensuring that their Veteran continued the mission of caring for the family and being a productive citizen within their community.

I want to use this forum to say 'THANK YOU' to the spouses. Your strength, support, and caring have been the cornerstone in bringing our Veterans "all the way home."