Today we observe Veterans Day, a day to recognize the service of all U.S. military veterans. Tomorrow, I'll be joining Minnesota Department of Veterans Affairs Temporary Commissioner Brad Lindsay, and others in honoring veterans at the 2023 State of Minnesota Veterans Day Program at the Inver Grove Heights Veterans Memorial Community Center.

Veterans Day, originally called Armistice Day to mark the end of World War I, has been a federal holiday since 1954. It retains its meaning and importance because of what it represents: a time to honor veterans who answered the call, served their country, and made great sacrifices to protect our freedoms, defend our cherished values, and secure democracy. We must all continue to recognize the selfless service and sacrifices made by current and former members of the U.S. military, as well as their families. With more than 294,000 current and former service members calling Minnesota home, chances are you know a veteran. Please take a moment to show your appreciation and thank the veterans you may know. Here at DEED, we are proud to have 83 coworkers who are veterans or have military-connected experience. We're also honored to be a Beyond the Yellow Ribbon Organization for our ongoing efforts to recruit, hire and retain employees who are military veterans.

Supporting our community and assisting our veterans with employment opportunities are priorities at DEED. Each year we partner with the Minnesota Department of Veterans Affairs to host a career fair that brings together hundreds of local veterans to meet with nearly 100 Minnesota employers. Our team works tirelessly to provide veterans the tools to overcome employment obstacles, educate employers about the benefits of hiring veterans, and combat underemployment by connecting veterans to meaningful careers with family-sustaining wages. More and more Minnesota employers recognize that veterans have the skills, passion, and commitment they need in their workforce — and hiring a veteran is a great decision for their organization's success.

Veterans Employment Representatives are located in CareerForce offices throughout the state where veterans and their spouses receive priority of service. You can find out more about CareerForce Veterans Employment Services at CareeforceMN.com/Veterans. In addition to serving all veterans through career exploration, job search, and other employment services, Veterans Employment staff provide additional services to National Guard members returning from deployments.

CareerForce Veterans Employment Services at DEED was recognized last year by the U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) Minneapolis VA Health Care System as the Community Partner of the Year. This recognition was earned through continued partnership with the Minneapolis VA to help veterans find employment and provide the support they need to be successful on the job.

Veterans served our country, and it is our honor to serve them in finding meaningful employment and reaching their career goals.