Throughout the month of November, I am reminded of the importance of gratitude and family. That?s why I proclaimed November as Veterans and Military Families Month and Veterans Caregivers Month to honor veterans, military families, and caregivers throughout the state.?

To the families of service members, thank you for supporting your moms or dads, aunts or uncles, brothers or sisters, sons or daughters while on deployment. To the military and veteran caregivers who are relatives, friends, neighbors and coworkers, thank you for your dedication to our wounded, ill, or injured veterans while balancing all your other commitments to your families, jobs, and communities. Your support is essential, and it is our responsibility to ensure you do not have to do it alone.?

?

I want to thank the more than 550,000 veterans and nearly 11,000 Air and Army National Guard members right here in Michigan by honoring their sacrifices and recognizing their successes. Their brave service to this country keeps us safe and secures our freedoms.? Make sure to tune in to my social media today as I will be highlighting our Michiganders in uniform and sharing their incredible stories.?

Today and every day, the Michigan Veterans Affairs Agency is here to meet the needs of Michigan veterans. If you are a veteran, make sure you know the benefits and resources available to you by calling 800-MICH-VET (800-642-4838) or visiting www.michigan.gov/MVAA. If you?re a veteran in crisis or concerned about one, call the Veterans Crisis Line at 988 and press 1; text 838255; or chat online confidentially at www.veteranscrisisline.net.?

We owe those who serve, their families, and their caregivers our gratitude, and I pledge to work hard to ensure they thrive. From investments in suicide prevention and opening two new Michigan Veteran Homes to scholarships for military families, I am committed to their success just as they are committed to our country.?

Sincerely,