Governor Dayton and Congressman Kline Honor Beyond Yellow Ribbon Cities

Friday afternoon, Gov. Mark Dayton, Congressman John Kline and other dignitaries honored the newest "Beyond the Yellow Ribbon" cities and communities in Lakeville.

Oakdale was one of the honorees.

Beyond the Yellow Ribbon is an initiative to give material support and aid to military service members, their families and veterans. Volunteers with Beyond the Yellow Ribbon have built access ramps for disabled fighters and offered simple services like babysitting and grass cutting to military families at no charge.

But the need for help goes further, said Master Sgt. Dave Denton, a member of the Minnesota National Guard and the Yellow Ribbon Outreach Coordinator for Dakota County. It is critical to get employers on board as well, Denton said, so that returning vets are able to find steady work.

"We need people to step forward and help," Denton said.