There are currently about 72,000 soldiers and veterans in South Dakota who could benefit from the coalition.

Command Sergeant Zimmerman says, "Thinking of what we can do for all our veterans, service members, soldiers, airmen, sailors. It's very important and this South Dakota Coalition of Families is a great start to bring together all the assets that we have for the care, education and benefits of our veterans within the state."

The SDCMF is a continuation of an initiative sponsored by the White House called "Joining Forces" to mobilize all sectors of society to give service members, veterans and their families the opportunities and support they have earned.

-Cheryl Lee