Minnesota Department of Veterans Affairs

Minnesota Veteran - May

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Desk of the Commissioner - May

Spring has definitely arrived in St. Paul. As I look outside my office window I see the leaves in full-bloom with varying colors of green, white, and purple. I also saw a lone turkey walking through our parking lot acting as though she owned the property and was wondering why all the cars were parked in her area. I’ve always been amazed at how well we and nature have adapted to each other.

Mission to Honor Forgotten Vietnam Gold Star Families

In May 1972, combat helicopter pilot, Jim Crigler fulfilled a Vietnam battle field promise made to his mentor and brother in arms, Thomas Shaw. It was Shaw’s wish that should he be killed in action, he wanted Crigler to bring him back home to his family in Fond du Lac, Wisconsin.

This was the first time Crigler met a Gold Star Family. He remembers the visit as if it was just yesterday. “It was the toughest mission of the war for me,” said Crigler.

Memorial Day: Remember Their Sacrifice

While we look forward to the long Memorial Day weekend filled with barbeques and family gatherings, few remember or take time to reflect on the reason why that day is so important. It is the one day our nation sets aside to honor our courageous Veterans who gave their lives in defense of freedoms, way of life, in this great nation.