This fall has been a most interesting one for many reasons. The presidential election, which dominates the news, has consumed much of our time. But the beauty of the election is that it will soon be over.

 

This fall there has been a number of events that were special. The Medal of Honor Convention held in Minnesota was both an honor and a most interesting task. A side benefit of the convention has been the serious look at the reflecting pool at the state’s Veterans Services Building. The reflecting pool sprung a leak right after it was built and has never held water. Several dedicated people wanted to see a memorial converted into a monument honoring the Medal of Honor Recipients. Go to the website at http://minnesotamedalofhonormemorial.org/ to see the conceptual drawings. We will keep you updated on the progress of this new memorial.

 

Another fall event is the Department’s orientation of the new Commanders within the Commanders’ Task Force, which I consider to be my Board of Directors. The new Commanders recently attended a workshop conducted by the Department held at Camp Ripley. I am excited, as I have always been, in working with such a dedicated group of individuals whose focus is on the Veterans within Minnesota.

 

Veterans Day is right around the corner. I’ve always been impressed with a number of events being held all across the state of Minnesota as well as our nation. We will try to have a comprehensive listing on our website. The official state ceremony will be held at the Inver Grove Heights Armory.

 

As we move on towards December, we will remember and honor the 75th anniversary of the attacks on Pearl Harbor on December 7. One of the privileges I have in my office here in St. Paul is that my window looks out onto the USS Ward gun. This gun, fired by Minnesota reservists on the USS Ward, was the first shot of our nation’s entrance into World War II. Over the years there is a lot of debate if they actually got the mini-submarine. Thanks to underwater technologies, the mini submarine that was said to have been hit was found with a hole in it right where they said they hit the submarine. The significance of this is not just the event of that day but also another example of the role Minnesota has played in our nation’s conflicts. Whether it was holding the line at Gettysburg; the first shot of World War II; or being the longest serving Brigade in the Iraq war, we can be proud of our heritage. These are just a few of the examples of why we must always be reflective of the service of all our men and women who served – and yes, to those who cared for those back home.

 

The arrival of fall also means we are looking forward to the new legislative session. We will continue to develop programs that serve our Veterans and ensure they have access to all the benefits they have earned. 

 

Until next month, take good care of yourself.