Hundreds gather in Arden Hills to honor Veterans Day
ARDEN HILLS, Minn. — Thinking about his time in Vietnam brought a tear to Paul Kluge's eyes.
"It means a lot to me," Kluge said. Kluge served in the Vietnam War. He turned just 20 years old on the ship over.
Kluge was one of the dozens of veterans honored with a meal, music and words Monday morning in Arden Hills at the Official State of Minnesota Veteran's Program. State and federal leaders — including Gov. Tim Walz — also gave speeches.
Walz was given a warm welcome back after his whirlwind vice presidential campaign. It was his second public Minnesota appearance after the election.
He thanked veterans for their service, and spoke about the unity Veterans Day brings. He urged everyone to carry that sentiment forward under new country leadership.
"I'm grateful that Veterans day comes right behind the elections," he said. "It reminds us of what's really important. It reminds us that we're family. Families can differ, families can bicker. But at the end of the day, we're in this to protect that democracy, to protect those who are willing to serve and to make sure that we do smart things to make their lives a little better."
"When we come to an event like this and gather with out veterans, we are reminded that there is so much more that unites us than divides us," Sen. Amy Klobuchar said.
It also led to important conversations — and a connection with comrades.
"That's my comfort zone to be with veterans with whom I can talk and share," Kluge said.
Lawmakers highlighted efforts to eliminate veteran homelessness. Last month, Hennepin County ended veteran homelessness. It put Minnesota on track to be the fourth state end veteran homelessness across the country.