This year’s VFW/Ladies Auxiliary State Convention, held at Yankton’s Kelly Inn, had many speakers at its opening sessionFriday. One in particular stood out: Sen. John Thune was present to give a formal opening address.

"I am grateful to be here," he said.

Thune had an uncle in the Navy who was stationed at Pearl Harbor when it was attacked on Dec. 7, 1941. 

This family story has prompted Thune to be invested in veteran affairs, which is especially prevalent given the VA scandals of the recent year.

"The Veteran Choice Act is in the process of being implemented," Thune told the audience Friday. "We want to make sure we’re giving veterans access to full quality care in the most convenient, accessible way."

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