Tuesday, April 10, 2007
Contact: Jessica Robinson, 573-751-0290
Blunt Honors Military Heroes
JEFFERSON CITY–Gov. Matt Blunt today honored the service and sacrifice of the men and women of our armed forces as well as the veterans who served our country in uniform. Blunt participated in "A Grateful Nation Remembers"-Veterans Recognition Ceremony and the annual Support Your Troops event. Both events were held at the Capitol in conjunction with the Missouri Veterans Commission's 75th Anniversary.
"The men and women who have worn the uniform of our Armed Forces are the reason the United States of America is blessed with freedom unparalleled," Blunt said. "Our military heroes' commitment and sacrifice is something to be celebrated. Today, and all days, we honor our service men and women for their dedication to upholding democracy."
The governor, the Missouri Veterans Commission and honored guests celebrated Missourians' military service throughout the day including a Veterans recognition ceremony in the House Chambers and a Support Your Troops event on the Capitol lawn.
As governor, Blunt has enacted new laws to better protect and honor veterans and their families. Following what he has called a despicable protest at the funeral of Specialist Edward Lee Myers the governor sent a strong message that Missouri not only supports our military members at home and abroad, but that the sacrifices they make are valued, respected and important to the grateful people they serve. Legislation he signed protects Missouri families' right to honor their loved ones and makes it clear Missouri will not tolerate protests of a fringe group that causes pain to those who are mourning the loss of a military hero.
New laws enacted under the governor's leadership call for state officials to help veterans access their federal medical benefits, allow Veterans without permanent homes to access their rightfully earned benefits through charitable or religious organizations, created the Vietnam War Medallion Program, implement a policy that flags will be flown at half staff on September 11, and urge Missourians to fly the POW/MIA flag on select holidays to commemorate the service and sacrifice of those soldiers whose whereabouts are still unknown.
The governor also helped create a new program to help support active-duty National Guard and reserve service members' families when the primary income earner is called to active duty for more than four months. He also expanded the Lt. Governor's role as Veterans Advisory Council Chairman to include administering select veterans programs and funds.
Gov. Blunt has witnessed firsthand the dedication and commitment that Missouri troops make everyday to guarantee our freedom with visits to Iraq, Afghanistan and the Mexican Border. Blunt is a graduate of the United States Naval Academy in Annapolis, Maryland and serves as a Lieutenant Commander in the Naval Reserves.