A group of 31 World War II veterans from McLeod County watched Saturday as the names of 6,284 fellow Minnesotans who died during the war were read.

Seven years and $1.38 million since its inception, the “long overdue” memorial on the State Capitol mall was finally dedicated to the greatest generation June 9.

Roger Olson, a Korean war veteran who helped the American Legion Post 96 organize and sponsor the event, said the memorial was not dedicated to soldiers alone.

He pointed out the the title of “the greatest generation,” given by Tom Brokaw’s influential 1998 book, applies to those who worked in factories, farmers who grew so-called “victory gardens,” citizens who bought war bonds, and whoever else helped the war effort. World War II was known as the first “total” war, involving and affecting citizens on both sides and not just professional soldiers.

“It was time we took to recognize these men in their twilight years and to say thank you. Not only were these great men, but people who saved our democracy,” Olson said of the dedication. He said the memorial took so long to finish because of politics, fundraising and the many designs that were submitted.

“They had many, many architects,” Olson said.

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For the full story about McLeod County veterans attending the Capitol Memorial dedication, see the print edition of the June 14 Leader.

This story was written by Leader intern Caleb Sommerville. He may be reached at (320) 234-4156.