This nation will remain the land of the free, only so long as it is the home of the brave.??? Elmer Davis

On Veterans Day, we take a moment to express our gratitude and deep appreciation for the brave men and women who have served in the armed forces. This day serves as a reminder of the sacrifices made by our veterans to protect and defend the values that form the bedrock of our society. Their unwavering dedication to duty, courage in the face of adversity, and commitment to the principles of freedom and democracy are the cornerstones of our nation's strength.

As we express our gratitude, let's also make sure that the sacrifices of our veterans are never forgotten, and that we continue to honor their legacy.

This year, I was proud to champion a Veterans funding bill that provided our heroes with the resources they need and deserve:

• Additional funding in bonus payments to post 9/11 veterans and expanded eligibility so that more veterans could receive this financial support;
• Funding for new?Veterans?homes in Bemidji, Montevideo, and Preston; and
• Increased Veterans GI tuition and apprenticeship benefits so that veterans have access to more opportunities to further their careers.

If you would like additional information on any of the above items, please visit the Minnesota Department of Veterans Affairs website at?www.mn.gov/mdva/.

I was proud to support this legislation, and I am even more proud to be able to honor the veterans in my family: My uncle Aural Ekvall, who fought in the Battle of the Bulge, my nephew Cole Perry, who served in the Army in Iraq, and my other nephew Michael Munson, who served in the Air Force.?Their service and legacy, along with the many other veterans who have made this country the greatest in the world, will never be forgotten.

As you go about your day on Saturday, I hope that you will also pause, say a prayer, and take time to express your gratitude for the brave men and women who have served to protect the wonderful and unique country we are blessed to call home.

May God bless all of our veterans!?