In the midst of this arctic cold blast, it may be difficult to think ahead to summer. But soon enough we will be enjoying Minnesota’s summer and come September, we will be commemorating a special and somber anniversary.

September 11, 2021 will mark the 20th anniversary of the 9/11 attacks on the United States by the terrorist group Al-Qaeda. Like other significant events in our county’s history, most of us can probably remember where we were on that fateful day when we lost almost 3,000 Americans.

The United States responded by launching the War on Terrorism, invading Afghanistan and eventually locating and killing Al-Qaeda leader Osama bin Laden in 2011. The War on Terrorism has been America’s longest war and continues to this day.

Many Minnesotans have participated in this conflict over the past two decades including active duty, reserve and Minnesota National Guard. To recognize their service and sacrifice as well as remember and record the Minnesota experience since that fateful day, the Minnesota Department of Veterans Affairs established the 9/11 and the Global War on Terrorism Remembrance Task Force.

I am proud to chair this task force which began meeting in September 2020. Members include one member each from the Minnesota Senate and Minnesota House of Representatives, two MDVA staff, a member from the Minnesota Military Museum, and eight public members. The public members were selected for their interest in conducting public history programs and their personal experience with the events of September 11, 2001 or the resulting deployments of military service. The taskforce members are serving two-year appointments. A complete list of task force members is on our website.

During the coming months, the task force will be working to educate current and future generations of Minnesotans about the sacrifice and high cost of maintaining freedom. The purpose of this task force is to preserve, educate, recognize, remember, commemorate and engage the public about Minnesota’s history and sacrifices during 9/11 and the Global War on Terrorism.

Task Force Work Groups and their recent activities include:

• Education: Discussing the creation of a traveling display, speakers’ bureau and education curriculum.
• Commemoration: Discussing an event to be held September 11, 2021 that would include a program and display.
• History: The Minnesota Military Museum is leading a statewide initiative to gather Minnesota stories – from service members and civilians – about America’s longest war. The museum is hosting monthly online discussions to engage a broad, statewide audience.

We are honored to be developing meaningful remembrance activities to recognize this important anniversary. The Task Force members welcome the public’s input and ideas. We will continue to keep you updated on our progress.

As always, If you need information or support on any Veteran issue, please visit our website, contact your County Veterans Service Officer, or contact LinkVet at 1-888-LinkVet.

Thank YOU for your service!