Gold Star Families Memorial Monument Dedicated in Mantorville

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Mantorville, MN (KROC-AM News) - A ceremony was held Saturday in Mantorville to dedicate Minnesota's first Gold Star Families Memorial Monument.

The monument honors the families of men and women who have died while serving in the US military. There are currently more than 100 Gold Star Families Memorial Monuments in all 50 states. According to the Woody Williams Foundation, another 72 monuments are in progress.

The non-profit group’s website says the foundation was created by Medal of Honor Recipient Herschel "Woody" Williams and works with local community leaders to establish the monuments in cities and towns throughout the United States. It also provides outreach to Gold Star families, offers scholarships to children of fallen US service members, and pursues educational benefits for Gold Star families.

The monument in Mantorville is located next to the Dodge County Courthouse on land donated to the cause by Dodge County.

TRIBUTE: 29 U.S. Service Members From Minnesota Killed During the War in Afghanistan

After 20 years of war, 29 men and women from Minnesota made the ultimate sacrifice in Afghanistan while serving our country during Operation Enduring Freedom.

Scroll through the photos below and pay tribute to our fellow Minnesotans who served with valor.

The information below comes from the Iraq Coalition Casualty Count