The Minnesota Department of Veterans Affairs (MDVA) was honored to host a delegation from Croatia Sept. 28. Croatian Ambassador Pjer Šimunović and other government leaders were interested in learning about Minnesota’s solutions in developing the highest level of care for Veterans.

Croatia currently does not have a Veterans Affairs department. While on a trade mission to Minnesota facilitated by the Minnesota Department of Employment and Economic Development, this delegation was interested in how Minnesota cares for our Veterans as the Croatian leaders explore establishing a governmental body with a similar mission.

I was joined by several MDVA leaders to provide an overview of our agency and reinforce Minnesota’s commitment to caring for our Veterans. The group was impressed by the breadth of our services.

I’m proud to share the MDVA story, with everyone from international leaders to local Veterans and their families. It’s always a reminder of our commitment to ensure that benefits earned are delivered as promised. From advocating on behalf of Veterans filing claims for disability or health issues with the Federal VA to supporting Veteran and family education through the Minnesota GI Bill; from finding housing for those who are homeless to supporting upstream services such as counseling, financial grants and referrals for physical and mental health care; from caring for our aging Veterans in our Homes to ensuring a dignified burial in our Cemeteries, MDVA is here for our Veterans.

It's hard to fathom not having a Veterans Affairs Department to care for those who have served our country. We believe sharing our best practices and overview of services will inspire others to do likewise.

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!