Erik Paulsen: “Behind every man and woman in uniform serving our country are family members: husbands, wives, mothers, fathers…”

“Behind every man and woman in uniform serving our country are family members: husbands, wives, mothers, fathers, brothers, sisters, sons, daughters, and other family members who make sacrifices as members of military families. Recently, I attended the dedication of a new Minnesota military family tribute that is now part of the Capitol Mall area in St. Paul at our State Capitol. It was built entirely with private donations. It commemorates the military Gold Star families, Blue Star families, and families of our veterans. This memorial is the first of its kind in the country, and it recognizes the military family members that do so much to support our servicemen and -women and our veterans. Being a member of a military family comes with many sacrifices. It means many sleepless nights during deployment. It means unexpected moves around the country and serving as the frontline resource when our soldiers transition into a new life. Every military family does this proudly. Mr. Speaker, I commend Bill and Teri Popp and everyone who has worked so hard to make this tribute recognizing our military families possible. ____________________”