First of all, I want to thank all who attended the Commanders’ Task Force, the United Veterans Legislative Council and the Minnesota Association of County Veterans Service Officers sponsored Legislative Day on the Hill in St. Paul. There was an excellent turnout of Veterans from all across the State of Minnesota. The rotunda was filled; the comments made were to the point; and there was a tone of commitment from the Veterans. Their presence made sure our legislators understood the impact Veterans make in this great state. I thank all who attended as you truly made a difference!

Recently we opened the new addition to the Veterans Home on the Minneapolis campus. It was the final of three phases as we rebuilt the facilities. The dedication turnout was impressive! The new building shows the value we place in our Veterans. The Residents will be well cared for and in an environment that they so richly deserve. Most noteworthy for me during the ceremony was our keynote speaker -- a Navy nurse who served in Vietnam. What impressed me most was her spunky personality and intensity that clearly personified her service in a combat zone. Kay Bauer was her name, and if ever you have a chance to meet her, you would understand what I mean about her compassion for those she cared for during the war.

Coming up shortly will be Memorial Day, a day set aside to pay our respects to those fallen or who have left us. Memorial Day has many roots in its evolution but they all have the same ending goal -- to pay our respects to those who made the ultimate sacrifice during war and to those who returned from war with invisible wounds that accompanied them throughout their life. Take time to say “thank you for your service and sacrifices.” This is but a small task to give for those who have given so much for our country.

As always, wish you all a very enjoyable summer season, as they are precious in Minnesota. And when you’re with your family and friends, give them a heartfelt ‘thank you’ for being who they are and what they mean to you.