As we wrap up the month of September, it is clearly evident that the winter season is fast approaching. I write this column just after my wife and I attended the deployment ceremony for over 650 of our National Guard “Red Bulls” who will be deployed overseas for a year. The event was held in St. Paul and was very well attended by family, friends and dignitaries and was just a great way for Minnesotans to say thank you to those who serve!

September does signify a change of seasons, and for the Veterans community it also brings awareness to an issue that needs continued awareness and diligence. September is Suicide Awareness Month. One of the tasks that I found most difficult in my prior position as Adjutant General of the Minnesota National Guard, and also as Commissioner of the Minnesota Department of Veterans Affairs, is that of attending the funerals of our service members who have taken their own lives. The impact on the family is traumatic and the one-word question they all ask is: “why?”  I have my theories and I am sure you have yours, but in actuality all are unique to the individual. The only advice I can offer is that if anyone senses a concern that they address it immediately. One of the saddest feelings is thinking I shouldn’t have waited to talk to them tomorrow, when tomorrow never comes for them. 

Switching to a more ongoing business area is the excitement surrounding the opening of our new dental clinic at the Minneapolis Veterans Home. This dental clinic is a first-class operation and once again provides evidence to our Veterans that there are professionals and families who value their service and work to ensure that the twilight years will provide them care and addresses their needs. This dental clinic is receiving much deserved recognition at all levels –being the first fixed dental clinic on a State Veterans Home campus.

Also this past month the Minnesota American Legion was the host state for the National American Legion convention held in Minneapolis. First I want to commend the Minnesota American Legion for doing an outstanding job! Minneapolis was the host city for the first American Legion convention held 100 years earlier. It was only fitting to have the 100th anniversary here, and it was done in a first-class fashion.  Our State American Legion brought great honor to Minnesota and to all who have served their country and have worn the uniform.  As an added bonus we had a number of Federal VA officials attend the conference. We were able to take advantage of their attendance by showing what Minnesota has done in caring for its Veterans. We met with the head of the Federal VA Cemeteries and showed them the Preston Cemetery. Of note was that also on the tour was the Chief of Staff of the Federal VA system, who I learned also has relatives in Minnesota.  In talking with these leaders, it was evident that the state of Minnesota is held in high standing on how we care for our Veterans.

I’ll wrap it up by saying, as I look out my window, ‘that the seasons, they are changing,’ and ask that all of you get ready for the winter months. As always – Thank you for your service!