Veterans Day, recognized November 11 each year, is a great opportunity to look around our communities and take a few moments to thank the men and women who willingly offered their own lives for the protection of our state and country. The selflessness of these individuals is a debt that is rarely repaid in full, but this annual remembrance can be one small token of gratitude from a grateful nation.

Each day, we are surrounded by heroes. Our civil servants, police, firefighters, emergency responders, and especially members of the armed forces, are just some of the people to whom we owe a great deal. If it were not for these brave folks that so often put the good of the people over their own welfare, we would not have the ability to carry on with our daily activities.

I am honored to be one of the two senators to serve on the Missouri Veterans Commission (MVC). One role of the commission is to coordinate veteran outreach. As a member of the commission and a firm supporter of veterans’ rights, I would like to take the opportunity to direct local veterans to the offices that can best assist them. Veterans’ Service offices are conveniently located in almost every county across the state, providing access to veterans. In the 21st Senatorial District, Caldwell, Carroll and Livingston counties are served by same office, available at the Missouri Veterans Home, 1111 Euclid, in Cameron, and at 816-632-6010. Saline County is served from the Veterans’ Service Supervisor’s office at 816 Westwood in Sedalia, which can be reached by phone at 816-530-5544. Johnson, Lafayette and Ray counties are served from the Missouri Veterans’ Home, 1300 Veterans Road, in Warrensburg, or at 660-543-5064. Howard County’s services are available in Boone County, 601 Business Loop 70 West, or by phone at 573-882-5135.

Another important task of the MVC is to provide for the Show-Me State’s seven veterans’ homes. The 21st Senatorial District is fortunate to have the Warrensburg Veterans’ Home located here in our backyard. It is an outstanding facility that cares for our heroes. The excellent staff and dedicated volunteers make the Warrensburg Veterans’ Home a place committed to offering great care.

By participating in one the many celebrations around the 21st Senatorial District, we honor the service of our veterans and the sacrifices that they and their families have offered for the good of our country. Showing these heroes they are appreciated is a small task compared to what they have offered us.

As always, please feel free to contact me or my staff with any questions or concerns at any time. We look forward to hearing your comments and suggestions and trying to answer any questions you may have. You can reach us by phone at 866-277-0882 (toll-free) or 573-751-2272, or by fax at 573-526-7381.