I never get the feeling from my constituents that they're not willing to make sure we lay our veterans to rest.

Often with my colleagues, they hear me talk about southern Minnesota and I can see them roll their eyes.

Currently, there are approximately 45,000 veterans in southern Minnesota who would be eligible for burial in a veterans' cemetery.

I look forward to hearing more from the citizens of Fillmore County as well as the VA in today's testimony.

Well, I think that public/private partnership is the key.

the local officials, the members of the Fillmore County Board and all the staff have absolutely energized and enthused people about this issue.

I often say I stand on the shoulders of giants, and it's no more true than today of the folks who have done the hard work.

What's left to get this thing done? What has to happen until we start laying those warriors to rest with the honor they deserve?

I can't tell you how proud I am to have a small piece in this.

Do you think that's true, Ms. Brown?

this community understands this. They understand that this will transform Preston into already a very special place, but it will be hallowed ground.