Dayton, other officials pay tribute to Minnesota veterans
Gov. Mark Dayton told gathering of military veterans today that their heroism was as great as those who gave their lives in battle.
Dayton was a featured speaker at the official state Veterans Day ceremony, which was held at the Veterans Memorial Community center in Inver Grove Heights. He thanked the veterans for carrying on a tradition of duty and sacrifice.
“Every time you’ve been called to duty, you’ve protected the rest of us, our country and our way of life,” Dayton said.
The adjutant general of the Minnesota National Guard said the act of honoring military veterans should be more than a once-a-year event.
Maj. Gen. Richard Nash suggested several ways for Minnesotans to show their appreciation, such as voting, spending time with veterans and teaching children to respect the flag. Nash also urged employers to hire veterans.
“Service members are instilled with values that you can’t find in everyone, like duty and honor and integrity and respect,” Nash said. “They are driven and will be the next greatest generation of leaders in our state and our nation.”
The event also included remarks from Sen. Amy Klobuchar and U.S. Rep. Betty McCollum. Sen. Al Franken and U.S. Rep. John Kline sent letters that were read during the program.
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