Governor Parson Encourages Missourians to Honor Service Members on Veterans Day, Highlights State Resources for Missouri Veterans

NOVEMBER 8, 2019

Jefferson City — Today, Governor Mike Parson released the following statement regarding the observance of Veterans Day:

“This Veterans Day weekend, let us take the time to honor the service, sacrifice, and courage of our veterans. America owes a debt of gratitude to all service members, and while we can never repay the sacrifices they have made, we can honor them by continuing to recognize their service and commitment to our country,” Governor Parson said. “Having spent six years in the Army, I encourage everyone to thank our veterans and active military – not only this weekend but throughout the year. Thanks to their sacrifice, we are here today.” 

Governor Parson will participate in several events in honor of Veterans Day this year. Today, Governor Parson will speak at Veterans Day events at Sparta High School and Bolivar Middle School. Monday, November 11, he will attend the Branson Veterans Day Parade. 

Thursday, November 14, Governor Parson will speak at the Hiring Our Heroes Fellowship Graduation Ceremony. Saturday, November 16, Governor Parson will attend Whiteman Day and the Mizzou versus Florida Military Appreciation Day game. He will also speak at the National Stars and Stripes Museum’s Inaugural Spirit of Democracy event on Saturday evening. 

Home to over 480,000 veterans, Missouri has several agencies, programs, and partnerships in place to assist and support veterans in the state. 

Missouri Veteran’s Commission

The Missouri Veterans Commission (MVC) provides assistance to veterans regarding their rights, access to benefits, and other veterans resources and programs in place in Missouri. MVC also has Missouri Veterans Homes located across the state that provide long-term, skilled nursing care for veterans. 

MVC recently received nearly $5 million in grant funding from the U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs to make important upgrades to four Missouri Veterans Homes:

  • Warrensburg Veterans Home: $1,226,486
  • St. James Veterans Home: $618,309
  • St. Louis Veterans Home: $1,644,063
  • Mexico Veterans Home: $1,457,622

The funds allowed MVC to replace aging mechanical systems with high efficiency units that will enhance the lives of Missouri veterans, their families, and employees. 

Missouri State Board of Nursing

The Missouri State Board of Nursing has placed a strong emphasis on collaboration with the military by working to incorporate and recognize education, training, and/or service received and completed into the qualifications to apply for licensure as a practical nurse.

This week, it was announced that the Board has reached a milestone of licensing 100 individuals through the U.S. Air Force’s education and training program. Since March 22, 2017, the Board has licensed 107 individuals who completed the program. 

The Board also has a Military Task Force in place with active military, retired military, and public partners who are continuously exploring ways to help transition active duty military professionals to successful civilian careers. 

Other State Programs and Resources

“As we honor our military members for their service, I’d like to commend the partnerships, programs, and resources our state has in place for veterans,” Governor Parson said. “We’re proud of the great work of our agencies to support those who have served our country, and we will continue working to make Missouri the most military and veteran friendly state in the nation.”