The Minnesota Department of Veterans Affairs (MDVA) will hold a virtual Memorial Day program again this year. As variants of the COVID-19 pandemic contribute to increases in positive cases throughout the state, MDVA is taking a cautious approach by providing a virtual event to recognize Memorial Day as was done in 2020. The cemeteries remain open and visitors are welcome to visit on Memorial Day when American flags will be displayed along the entrance street and on all graves in the cemeteries. “Historically, the Memorial Day events at our three State Veterans Cemeteries have drawn thousands of visitors. The ongoing COVID-19 pandemic requires a continued commitment to the health and safety of our Cemetery families and staff,” explains MDVA Commissioner Larry Herke. “Building on the success of last year’s program, we are confident that we can again virtually honor and pay our respects to Minnesota Veterans who have passed.” MDVA will again partner with Twin Cities PBS-TPT to create a 30-minute Memorial Day program entitled “Reflections: Memorial Day 2021” that will be broadcast across the state on TPT’s Minnesota Channel at 8 p.m. on Monday, May 31. The program will include remarks from Minnesota Governor Tim Walz and Commissioner Herke, personal stories about those we have lost and honor on Memorial Day, music and a rifle salute traditionally included in a live event. More details on the program will be shared in the coming weeks.

Congratulations to MN DAV Chapter 39 elected officers, William Gordon, Commander; Eva Smith, Senior Vice Commander; Travis Rust, Junior Vice Commander; Scott Berndt, Treasurer; Daniel Lynch, Chaplain; and Ray Christianson, Judge Advocate.  Scott Berndt, Chapter 39 Adjutant and MN State Commander, led the newly elected officers in their oath of office on April 8, 2021.

MN DAV Chapter 39 Clothing Drive coming to Cub Foods, 12900 Riverdale Drive NW, Coon Rapids, MN 55448 on Sat.  April 17th from 9:00 am to 4:00 pm, and Sun., April 18th, from 11:00 am to 4:00 pm.  Look for our DAV trailer and volunteers in the parking lot.  Proceeds from the clothing drive supports area Veterans.  Please bag your clothing and shoes.  PLEASE MASK-UP FOR SAFETY.

MN DAV Chapter 39 and Auxiliary Unit 39 will conduct their monthly meetings on Thursday, April 8, 2021 at the VFW located at 1919 Coon Rapids Blvd., Coon Rapids, MN 55433. The Chapter will hold its election of officers. There will be a signup sheet to support the Clothing Drive on April 17 & 18 at Cub Food at the Riverdale Mall (next to Walmart just off Hwy 10 and Round Lake Blvd).