Holidays to Remember

With summertime finally underway, many Minnesotans are enjoying the warmer temperatures and outdoor activities longed for during our extended winter season.

And while summer certainly brings the fun of picnics, beaches and water sports, it also informally begins with one of several holidays that commemorate the military service of Veterans and the freedoms we enjoy because of their sacrifices.

Memorial Day saw many Minnesotans pause to remember and honor both those who died in service to our country or who passed years after their military service. I’m proud to share that the three Minnesota State Veterans Cemeteries each hosted wonderful programs on the Sunday of Memorial Day weekend and hundreds of families and friends attended to pay their respects.

Women Veterans Day was recognized on June 12 nationally and in Minnesota through a Proclamation issued by Governor Tim Walz. Women Veterans Day acknowledges that “women have served in patriotic defense if our nation, starting with the Revolutionary War through World War I, World War II, the Korean War, the Vietnam War, the Gulf War, Operation Enduring Freedom and Operation Iraqi Freedom.” This includes more than 25,000 Minnesota women.

Flag Day is celebrated on June 14 to commemorate the adoption of the flag of United States on June 14, 1777. The Flag Resolution stated: "Resolved, That the flag of the thirteen United States be thirteen stripes, alternate red and white; that the union be thirteen stars, white in a blue field, representing a new constellation.” The United States Army also celebrates the U.S. Army birthday on this date.

Juneteenth is celebrated annually on June 19; it commemorates the date that the final group of enslaved people in the United States was declared free – two months after the Civil War ended and two years after the Emancipation Proclamation was issued. The holiday, focused on liberty and equality, reflects the freedoms that our military has consistently fought for.

General John Vessey Day is recognized in Minnesota on June 29 in celebration of his legacy as a soldier and statesman. The four-star general and former Chairman of the Joint Chiefs of Staff was born on this date in 1922 in Minneapolis. He began his military career in the Minnesota National Guard and served with the 34th Infantry Division during World War II. He also served in the Korean and Vietnam Wars.

And finally, our country’s Independence Day is celebrated on July 4 to commemorate the Declaration of Independence, ratified on July 4, 1776, establishing the United States of America after the American Revolution separated the 13 colonies from Great Britain.

So, enjoy the summer fun and festivities, but always remember that so many of the freedoms we enjoy were earned by the service and sacrifice of our Veterans.

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!