It's Veterans Day and the Capitol is dark, but that doesn't mean the various political machines shut off, too.

The DFL Party released this statement from chairman Brian Melendez honoring America's soldiers and veterans on Veterans Day:

"Throughout American history, brave men and women have put their lives on the line to protect our nation, its ideals, and our freedom. Today, we honor the courageous and faithful men and women who have served our country in uniform, who have defended our values and won the freedoms that we enjoy.

"As a new generation of soldiers from Iraq and Afghanistan transitions into the next generation of veterans, we must ensure that our troops and their families receive all the support and benefits that they have earned. We must renew our promise to all veterans, by continuing to strive for perfection in the Department of Veterans Affairs and by funding the services to which our veterans are entitled. Our country's veterans served for us; now we must be there for them.

"Today is a day to say thank you. Thank you to Representative Walz and the Democrats in Congress for working tirelessly to ensure that we do right by America's veterans. Thank you to the families who support our soldiers and serve our country here at home. But most importantly, thank you to our veterans and soldiers, who repeatedly put their lives on the line to protect us."