As Missourians we are extremely proud of the nearly half a million veterans who call the great state of Missouri home. 52,000 of those veterans reside right here in the third congressional district. These brave men and women are national heroes who dedicated their lives to protect our uniquely American freedoms and keep our families safe.

Throughout the year, my staff and I have the honor of welcoming veterans from mid-Missouri to our nation’s Capital where they have the opportunity to visit the many memorials dedicated to our past and present soldiers. It is an incredible experience for our veterans and a true honor to hear their amazing stories of bravery and sacrifice. As your Congressman, it is my duty to fight for our veterans with just as much passion and conviction as they did when fighting for our nation. Whether it’s improved benefits, a more efficient VA, or simply recognizing their service at every opportunity, I promise to never stop working to get our veterans the treatment they deserve.

Veterans have risked it all for our country, and as neighbors, friends, relatives and fellow Americans it is our duty to not only honor them on Veterans Day but to support them every single day of the year. This month, I announced my fourth annual “Valentines for Veterans” initiative, asking third district residents to send a kind note thanking our nation’s bravest for their service. Each year, my office asks local churches, schools and the community as a whole to help brighten the day of a veteran with simple words of gratitude and kindness.

Last year, my offices were blown away by the outpouring of support. We received more than 12,000 valentines, and after such amazing support from across the district, we’re happy to bring the program back for 2019. My district offices in Jefferson City, Washington, and Wentzville will be collecting valentines from all over the district to be distributed to VA hospitals and veterans service organizations that serve our community. Valentines for veterans can be dropped off or mailed to any of my district offices until Monday, February 4^th at 5 p.m.

If you have any questions, please call my Jefferson City office at (573) 635-7232 or visit my website at Luetkemeyer.House.Gov for additional details. I hope everyone can find a moment to thank those who served our nation and I look forward to seeing all of the creative designs and thoughtful messages! God bless our veterans and God bless America.