About the Project During World War II a banner with a gold star was presented to the families of the fallen. The Stories Behind the Stars Initiative was created to organize one central digital location to collect the stories of the 421,000+ Americans who were killed during World War II. These stories will be digitally... Continue Reading →
Post-9/11 Veteran Service Bonus
The 2022 Legislature passed and Governor Walz signed the first-ever Veterans Omnibus Bill that included funding for a service bonus payable to eligible Veterans who served from 9/11/01 to 8/30/21. The Minnesota Department of Veterans Affairs (MDVA) is honored to facilitate this program for eligible Veterans, currently serving service members, or Veterans' beneficiaries. MDVA will... Continue Reading →
Defense Department Announces Atomic Veterans Commemorative Service Medal
JULY 5, 2022 Today, the Secretary of Defense established the Atomic Veterans Commemorative Service Medal to commemorate the service and sacrifice of veterans who were instrumental in the development of our Nation's atomic and nuclear weapons programs. Our Nation's long-standing nuclear deterrence capability resulted from the service and sacrifice of Service members (now known as... Continue Reading →
Memorial Day 2022
There are many events held around the State of Minnesota on Memorial Day to honor veterans. Memorial Day is a day for mourning the U.S. military personnel who have died while serving in the United States armed forces. Some events being held in Minnesota are: Fort Snelling National Cemetery; Monday, May 30th at 10:00 am.... Continue Reading →
Veteran Suicide Prevention – Free Gun Locks
The MN Department of Veterans Affairs (MDVA) is partnering with the VA Healthcare System to distribute free gun locks. According to the U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs, a locked gun can mean the difference between a tragic outcome and a life saved for someone in crisis. Though Veterans are well-versed in firearm safety, all gun... Continue Reading →
Flags at Half-Staff through Sunset on Saturday, May 28, 2022
United States Flag at Half-Staff immediately through Sunset on Saturday, May 28, 2022 to honor the victims of the tragedy in Uvalde, Texas A Proclamation Honoring The Victims Of The Tragedy In Uvalde, Texas MAY 24, 2022 PRESIDENTIAL ACTIONS As a mark of respect for the victims of the senseless acts of violence perpetrated on... Continue Reading →
Flags at Half-Staff on May 20, 2022
Governor Walz Orders Flags at Half-Staff in Honor of Ryan Leif Erickson Governor Tim Walz has ordered all United States and Minnesota flags to be flown at half-staff at all state buildings in the State of Minnesota, from sunrise until sunset on Friday, May 20 2022, in honor and remembrance of firefighter Ryan Leif Erickson.... Continue Reading →
Month of the Military Child 2022
In April, Minnesotans across the state celebrate the "Month of the Military Child." It is estimated that more than 23,000 children in Minnesota have at least one parent or guardian currently serving on military duty. In recognition of their sacrifice, we take the time to celebrate children of Service Members and Veterans during this month.... Continue Reading →
Minnesota Medal of Honor Day 2022
March 25, 2022 is hereby proclaimed as Minnesota Medal of Honor Day in the State of Minnesota. WHEREAS: The United States Congress has designated March 25 each year as National Medal of Honor Day, the day the first Medal of Honor was presented in 1862; and WHEREAS: Since the Civil War, brave men and women... Continue Reading →
Flags at Half-Staff on Saturday, Feb 12, 2022
Governor Walz Orders Flags at Half-Staff in Honor of Lieutenant Brett Thomas Boss Governor Tim Walz has ordered all United States and Minnesota flags to be flown at half-staff at all state buildings in the State of Minnesota, from sunrise until sunset on Saturday, February 12, 2022, in honor and remembrance of Lieutenant Brett Thomas... Continue Reading →