When speaking with many audiences throughout my 39-year military career, I have often tried to highlight the importance of support from the American public.  I believe it is an essential motivational ingredient for our Soldiers, Sailors, Airmen, Marines, and Coast Guardsmen.  Fortunately, despite politics and other opinions, the American people have sustained this support for our uniformed men and women as they have done the Nation’s work in many locations.  I saw it prominently during my service in Afghanistan and Iraq, and I continue to see it after my return to Minnesota following my 2019 retirement.  It is powerful and, perhaps more than anything else, sends an unambiguous signal to our men and women that we value their efforts.  

This support is, of course, essential during times of conflict --- but I would also highlight that this support for our veterans and their families is equally important as they return to our communities.  Return to our communities is often a difficult transition --- mainly when our Veterans come with the visible and invisible scars of combat.  There is a multitude of ways to address these challenges.  One fundamental and tangible way is through public recognition and honor to their service.

I am writing to ask for your financial support for an initiative to recognize our Minnesota Veterans with a world-class museum worthy of their service and sacrifice.  

Your support will help us realize this dream of properly honoring generations of Minnesota Veterans for their service to our State and our Nation.  

With deepest respect.

General Joseph Votel