Governor, First Lady Thank VFW Members for Their Service During the Department's Annual Convention

Press Release

Gov. Jack and First Lady Betsy Dalrymple today thanked the members of the Veterans of Foreign Wars (VFW) and Auxiliary for their outstanding service and for the valuable contributions they have made in support of North Dakota's veterans, service members and their families. The Governor and First Lady addressed the VFW members during the 93rd annual North Dakota department convention, which was held in West Fargo.

"Throughout our history, generations of heroes have defended this country and its ideals, and upon returning home, continued their dedication to service as members of veterans organizations such as the Veterans of Foreign Wars," said Dalrymple. "For more than a century, the VFW has been at the forefront of serving and advocating on behalf of our veterans and their families, and has been an integral force in fostering our youth, strengthening our communities and enhancing the lives of our people."

During his remarks, Gov. Dalrymple praised attendees for all they have done for the state and nation, both as military members and veterans. He applauded their extraordinary service and devotion to duty, and their willingness to step up when their country called. The Governor also highlighted the VFW's role in establishing the Veterans Administration, creating a GI Bill for the 20th Century and developing the national cemetery system, among other valuable contributions.

The First Lady emphasized a new statewide initiative that she is chairing called ND Cares, a coalition dedicated to strengthening an accessible and seamless system of support for service members, veterans, families and survivors in North Dakota. This multi-collaborative effort includes more than 40 military and civilian professionals and works to resolve gaps in services or barriers to services for North Dakota's military families.

During the 2013 Legislative Session, the state continued its commitment to supporting veterans and military members by funding a variety of programs and initiatives, including:

$600,000 to continue the Veteran's Bonus Program.

An additional $110,000, for a total of about $2.5 million, to enhance the North Dakota National Guard Tuition Assistance Program. The program covers tuition costs for Guard members to participate in North Dakota post-secondary education programs.

$130,020 to coordinate the North Dakota National Guard Military Funeral Honors program.

$83,160 for maintenance at the North Dakota Veteran's Cemetery.
$325,000 to assist veterans who are enrolling in North Dakota's higher education institutions.

$50,000 to purchase service dogs to assist veterans suffering from post-traumatic stress disorder.

$50,000 to identify and provide assistance to North Dakota veterans who were exposed to Agent Orange during the Vietnam War.

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