Acronyms… nothing new to a Veteran of any generation. Long before the advent of cell phones, texts, DMs, Snaps, and any other social media based communication, the military has been using acronyms to communicate more efficiently and effectively in complex environments. I was just concerned about the title of the article being too long. Veterans Day On The Hill or VDOTH.
The event (rally) is being held on April 17, 2024, in St. Paul. The rally is a critical phase in the Minnesota legislative process. It provides a means to demonstrate our strength as Veterans, families, and supporters of Veterans. The goal is to implement meaningful change, through the legislative process to benefit Veterans, their families, and survivors. VDOTH is open to all Veterans and supporters, and no membership in any organization is required.
The rally kicks off at the Armory, 600 Cedar St., St. Paul. The Disabled American Veterans are providing free coffee starting at 1000 hours (10 AM) and free lunch at 1130 (11:30 AM). Veterans march to the rally at 1300 (1 PM), starting at the State Veterans Service Building, 20 West 12th St., St. Paul. The rally in the Capitol Rotunda is 1315 (1:15 PM) to 1400 (2:00 PM).
Please note that this is a non-partisan event. The Veterans Service Organizations (American Legion, DAV, VFW, and others) are also non-partisan, as are your CVSOs (civil servants employed by their respective counties). The rally is about Veteran advocacy and making positive legislative changes to improve the lives of Veterans, their families, and those they leave behind.
Looking towards VDOTH 2025, Cook and Lake CVSOs are discussing transportation options to provide North Shore Veterans an opportunity to attend next year’s rally. Would you be interested in attending? Keep your eyes and ears open, as your CVSOs will be trying to gauge interest and determine how many 5-tons we will need to haul everyone to St. Paul.
As we enjoy this January thaw, please consider volunteering in your community. Reach out to your local community organizations and Veterans service organization to ask about opportunities. Volunteering does not have to be a full-time job. It may be as simple as helping to serve a meal at a fund-raising event or providing a ride to someone needing to get to a doctor’s appointment. A few hours a year may make a lifetime of difference.
Brad Anderson and Melissa Crandall are the Lake County Veterans Service Officers and can be reached at 218.834.8326 or cvso@co.lake.mn.us
Karen Christianson is the Cook County Veterans Service Officer and can be reached at 218.387.3639, or karen.christianson@co.cook.mn.us
