ST. PAUL, Minn. (AP) - The American Legion and other service
organizations are looking for funding alternatives after learning
the state will no longer pay for honor guards at veterans'
funerals.
     The state reimbursed service organizations up to $50 for each
funeral. But, the funding wasn't included in the state budget
because of a projected $5 billion shortfall. Groups including the
American Legion will have to come up with more of their own money
to provide the honor guards. And, Veterans Affairs Deputy
Commissioner Reggie Worlds says service organizations are already
struggling financially.
     Bill Christenson directs the Honor Guard at the Albert Lea
American Legion. His organization has been reimbursed $10,000 since
2008. Christenson tells Minnesota Public Radio News
(http://bit.ly/o6npTH) the funds paid for uniforms, mileage, rifle
shells used during military salutes and musicians who played taps.
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