ST. PAUL -- Twenty-seven World War II veterans from New London beamed Tuesday as Gov. Tim Pawlenty hung medals around their necks and thanked them for serving their country.
After the medal ceremony and a short speech, Pawlenty paused to have his picture taken with the heroes near a newly finished World War II memorial before heading up the hill to his Capitol office and a meeting about the collapsed Minneapolis bridge.
"It was a great honor," said Alton Miller, who married a girl he met when fighting in France.
Alton and Paulette Miller celebrate their 62nd anniversary Saturday.
Orrin Fixsen returned the thanks to Pawlenty: "I told him that was really nice for him to take time out."
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The 27 World War II vets were among about 230 veterans and their spouses who traveled to the Twin Cities to visit the memorial, the Capitol, Fort Snelling and other sights.
Dale Peterson, who organized the New London group, said most veterans could not attend the June 9 dedication of the memorial, but still wanted to see it.
Pawlenty told the veterans they are like Isaiah from the Bible. When God asked for volunteers, Isaiah responded, "Here I am, send me," Pawlenty said, adding that all Minnesotans are proud of the veterans' dedication and courage.
New London has a high percentage of veterans. Fixsen knew why: "We have good wives who tell us what to do and what to eat."
