I hope everybody is enjoying time spent with their families on Father’s Day weekend. I know for me, the lessons I've learned and the skills I've gained from being a father have also made me a better person and a better representative for you in Congress.

On June 6, it was a very special anniversary for our country as we recognized the 70^th anniversary of the Normandy Invasion, or D-Day. The bravery and determination of the tens of thousands of allied troops swung the tide of World War II and changed the course of history. Those who fought for freedom and liberty — including the thousands who paid the ultimate price — will never be forgotten.

Each year I have the privilege of appointing young men and women to our nation's service academies (Air Force, West Point, Navy, and Merchant Marine). Last week, I hosted a reception with these inspiring future leaders and their families as they prepare to serve our country.

Also, check out the Star Tribune editorial from this week about my efforts to put an end to sex trafficking. I am optimistic that these pieces of legislation can move forward to become law and save lives.

And, News Flash for Social Media users: I've joined Instagram and you can follow me @reperikpaulsen.

Please contact my office if I can be of help to you or your family in any way at all. Join the conversation online by visiting my website, Facebook page, Twitter, and don't forget to watch my weekly video, Erik's Correspondence Corner.

Ending Military Sexual Assault

In recent years, sexual assault in the military has risen at a startling pace. Allowing this to continue and harm our troops is unacceptable and threatens our readiness. To address this problem, legislation I cosponsored extending whistleblower protections to military victims of sexual assault passed Congress and was signed into law. I am also an original cosponsor of legislation to ensure that our Minnesota National Guard service members have access to special victims counsel services to provide legal services throughout the military judicial process. Currently, many Guard members lose access to these services if the sexual assault occurs while they are not on duty -- even if related to their duty.

Minnesota Military Family Tribute Groundbreaking

Our men and women in the armed services sacrifice so much to keep our country safe and free. However, we often don’t give enough credit to the family members of these soldiers who make a number of sacrifices as well. Last week, I spoke at the groundbreaking of a Minnesota Military Family Tribute at the State Capitol in St. Paul. Minnesota is the first state in the country to create this tribute to honor all of the mothers, fathers, brothers, sisters, husbands, wives, and children that stand behind our troops. The tribute is set to be completed next June.

Improving the VA System

The news regarding the Veterans Administration continues to be alarming. An internal audit revealed that 57,000 veterans have waited over 90 days to be seen by a doctor in the VA system. The House took action to allow these veterans the choice of seeing their own local doctor rather than waiting in line at the VA. I’m also pushing to remove restrictions for veterans that want to contribute to Health Savings Accounts so they have more flexibility and options. We need to take care of our veterans before, during and after their deployment.

Erik joints Eli while touring Gillette Children's Hospital. Eli received a brand new prosthetic leg.

Congressman Paulsen touring North Star Imaging, a small manufacturing business in Rogers.

Congressman Paulsen speaking at the Minnesota Military Family Tribute groundbreaking.

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