Recognizing and remembering the sacrifices made by our servicemen and women and their families is incredibly important, for we wouldn’t be able to live, work, and raise our children in freedom if it weren’t for their bravery. I was proud to serve our country in the U.S. Navy as a second generation serviceman, and the men and women with whom I served were some of the most selfless and courageous people I’ve ever known. It’s nearly impossible to thank someone for putting their life on the line to protect the freedoms that can only be found in the United States. I hope all members of our Armed Forces know how much their fellow Missourians appreciate their service.

On Saturday, June 22, the VA St. Louis Health Care System is hosting a Welcome Home Celebration for veterans and members of the Armed Forces who have served in Operation Enduring Freedom, Operation Iraqi Freedom, and Operation New Dawn. This celebration will take place at Jefferson Barracks Campus (1 Jefferson Barracks Dr., St. Louis, MO 63125) from 9:00 a.m. to 2:00 p.m., with the ceremony beginning at 10:45 a.m. All veterans and their families are welcome to attend this special event honoring and remembering our bravest American citizens.

While at the event, guests will be able to visit resource booths offering information about veterans’ benefits, college counselors, and employment resources. There will also be a kids’ area, music and various performances, and activities such as fly fishing and kayaking. In addition, guests can check out the Women Veterans’ Summit and a Summer Sports Expo. For the convenience of the veterans and their families, a shuttle service will be provided from the John Cochran (JC) Division to the ceremony at Jefferson Barracks. The bus will leave JC at 8:45 a.m. and 9:30 a.m., with return trips scheduled from Jefferson Barracks back to JC at 1:30 p.m. and 2:30 p.m.

Included with this Capitol Report are the flyer for the event and the registrant information for the Welcome Home Celebration. If you have questions about the event, please contact the Program Manager of the Welcome Home Committee, Mr. Gray, at (314) 289-7635. To our veterans and your families — thank you for your service and for your love of our great country. Our strong, abundant, and free nation would not be what it is today if it weren’t for you, and your service will never be forgotten. Thank you and God bless.