John, This past April marked the 40th anniversary of my decision to join the National Guard. Two days after my 17th birthday, my dad drove me to meet a lieutenant who had a farm near our house. He got off his tractor to administer my oath of enlistment in the middle of his cornfield. Raising my right hand to serve that day was one of the best decisions I ever made. Throughout my 24 years in the Guard, I learned invaluable lessons about hard work, camaraderie, and community. Today, on Veterans Day, it is my honor to recognize the more than 325,000 veterans and deployed soldiers who call Minnesota home. It is through their selflessness that we are able to enjoy the freedom and liberty upon which our nation was founded. To all who have served, thank you. With gratitude, Tim Walz
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