Today is Veterans Day, a day to remember the service and sacrifice of current and former U.S. military members. I like to believe that every day is Veterans Day at the Minnesota Department of Employment and Economic Development, where we work hard year round to offer veterans the priority employment services they have earned.

Veterans Day is of course a day when all of us should thank our fellow Minnesotans who have served or are currently serving our state and country in the armed forces, especially during these difficult times. The selflessness of our service men and women allows us to enjoy the freedom and liberty our country was founded upon. Today is a day to salute them for their service.

I urge you to take a moment to thank veterans you know. There are 312,000 current and former military members who call Minnesota home. Roughly 20,000 of them are currently serving active duty, in the National Guard or in the reserves. So chances are you know someone who deserves your thanks today!

The State of Minnesota is committed to honoring those who have served and are serving in our military. That's why Governor Tim Walz proclaimed November 2020 as Veterans Month. In the Governor's proclamation he notes that 138,000 Minnesota veterans are of working age and almost 9,000 of those Minnesota veterans are currently unemployed. At DEED, we're focused on getting veterans the services they need to find fulfilling employment.

Current and former military members receive priority services through DEED's CareerForce Veterans Employment Services. Throughout the state, 24 veterans employment representatives offer career exploration, skills transfer and job search services to current and former military members.

In addition, we provide services, resources and referrals to National Guard soldiers returning from various deployments. And the Disabled Veteran Outreach Program (DVOP) provides intensive employment services that include job-readiness assessment, job search strategy and job placement assistance to eligible veterans.

CareerForce Veterans Employment Services also focuses on providing services to traditionally underserved groups of veterans, including intensive employment services and small business assistance for veterans being released from correctional facilities, female veterans, Native American veterans and homeless veterans. And Local Veteran Employment Representative staff provide assistance and guidance to businesses to help them recruit and hire veterans.

Many Minnesota employers recognize that veterans bring the skills, passion and commitment they need in their workforce — and that hiring a veteran is a great decision for their organization's success. DEED has partnered with the Minnesota Department of Veterans Affairs to offer the Minnesota Veterans Virtual Career Fair from 2-6 p.m. on November 19 as part of our efforts to honor veterans this month. You can find out more and register on the CareerForce website.

Veterans served our country, and it is our honor to serve them in finding fulfilling employment and reaching their career goals. If you are a veteran, we look forward to serving you and your family. Thank you for your service.