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ST. PAUL, MN - Governor Tim Walz and Lieutenant Governor Peggy Flanagan joined veterans and hundreds of volunteers to take part in today’s National Day of Service and Remembrance. Volunteers assembled 230,000 meals for food shelves across Minnesota.
“Today, 23 years after the terrorist attacks that shook the nation, we pause to remember all that was lost – the fathers, mothers, sons, daughters, colleagues, and friends who never returned home – and honor the courage and resilience of the American people,” said Governor Walz. “By coming together in a day of service we show that we are stronger when we lift others up, and we reaffirm our commitment to do right by the soldiers, veterans, and first responders who put their lives on the line to serve their communities and their country.”
“September 11, 2001, left a hole in our hearts and our country that can never be filled or forgotten,” said Lieutenant Governor Flanagan. “Today, in coming together to serve others, we remember and honor those lost – the workers and first responders who walked out of their homes for the last time that morning – embodying the selflessness demonstrated on that day and every day since. As we remember the tragedy of 9/11, the heroism demonstrated on that day, and the years of rebuilding, we are guided in our unity and service to our neighbors.”
Established by congress in 2009 and recognized annually, National Day of Service and Remembrance brings communities together to honor the lives and service of those lost on September 11, paying tribute through expressions of unity, kindness, and charitable service. On this 23rd anniversary of September 11, Governor Walz has also ordered all United States and Minnesota flags to be flown at half staff.
Minnesota is committed to ensuring the wellbeing of veterans across the state, including the patriots who served our country in the aftermath of 9/11. State investments in veteran housing, suicide prevention, educational opportunities, and skilled nursing care are protecting the safety and security of our veterans.
In 2022, Governor Walz signed the first-ever Veterans Omnibus Bill including funding for a service bonus payable to veterans who served from September 11, 2001, to August 30, 2021. As of August 2024, over 26,000 applications were approved for nearly $40 million in service bonuses.
This year, Minnesota opened three new veterans homes, becoming the first state in the nation to build and open three veterans homes simultaneously. The homes, located in Montevideo, Preston, and Bemidji will allow Minnesota to serve almost 200 more veterans. The openings come after more than a decade of advocacy and planning.