The City of Minneapolis was recognized as a Beyond the Yellow Ribbon organization for its efforts in supporting the military community at a proclamation event in Minneapolis on Nov. 7, 2024.

“The Minnesota National Guard values all of our corporate and community partnerships, including those who are part of our Beyond the Yellow Ribbon network, like the City of Minneapolis,” said Army Maj. Gen. Shawn Manke, Minnesota National Guard’s adjutant general, who spoke at the event. “We appreciate the value they place and the respect they have for the service and sacrifices of our Veterans, service members, and their families and the support they offer them in their workplaces and communities.”

While Farmington was the first Minnesota city to be recognized as part of the Beyond the Yellow Ribbon community network in 2008, the City of Minneapolis is the first Minnesota city government to be recognized as an employer and become part of the Beyond the Yellow Ribbon corporate network.

“Receiving the designation as a Beyond the Yellow Ribbon organization is a tremendous honor, and we are immensely proud to be the first city in Minnesota to achieve this milestone,” said Minneapolis Mayor Jacob Frey. “It is a privilege to support our service members, veterans, and their families who have made such significant sacrifices for our nation. The City of Minneapolis is dedicated to serving those who have served us, and we look forward to deepening our partnership with the Minnesota National Guard.”

Staffan Swanson, Minneapolis Fire Department deputy fire chief, served in the Army for three years. After separating from the military in 1989, he wanted to continue serving in some capacity. He took the civil service exam as soon as he could and began his career as a firefighter in 1991. Swanson said Veterans deserve a place that acknowledges their service and supports them and their families.

“I’m here to tell you that the City of Minneapolis is just that place,” Swanson said. “Nearly 34 years later, as a senior member of the Minneapolis Fire Department, I get to sit back and observe young people who also serve their country and choose to continue their service as a Minneapolis firefighter. I take great comfort knowing that the city will be there for them and their families in their time of need. Just as it was there for me.”

Minneapolis Police Department Assistant Chief Katie Blackwell also currently serves in the Minnesota National Guard. She has 27 years of military service. She said the Beyond the Yellow Ribbon program and the resources and assistance it provides have been a blessing to service members and their families, especially before, during, and after deployments.

“It was nice to depend on community members back home that were taking care of our families while we were deployed,” Blackwell said. “Whether it was a leaky faucet, needing help with mowing the lawn, or shoveling sidewalks, a sincere ‘thank you’ to all community members who volunteer and compassionately serve for Beyond the Yellow Ribbon and who help our service members and their families.”

Blackwell also thanked the mayor and city leaders, citing that there are 61 Veterans and service members in the Minneapolis Police Department. “It takes a whole community to ensure this wonderful support continues,” she added.

Known also as BTYR, Beyond the Yellow Ribbon establishes and sustains a community and corporate support network that connects agencies, organizations, and resources to meet the needs of Minnesota’s military Veterans, service members, and families in all branches. To learn more, visit the BTYR website at https://MinnesotaNationalGuard.ng.mil/btyr.

By Cristina Oxtra

Minnesota National Guard Public Affairs