St. Paul, MN - Governor Mark Dayton announced today that he has signed Executive Order 11-15, establishing a Civil War Commemoration Task Force. 2011 marks the 150th anniversary of the start of the Civil War. The members of the First Minnesota Volunteer Regiment were among those on the front lines, fighting throughout the war, including at the Battle of Gettysburg.

Representative Dean Urdahl helped spearhead the creation of the task force, and Secretary of State Mark Ritchie read the newly issued Executive Order at the Civil War Flag Day at the Capitol celebration today.

"I thank Secretary of State Mark Ritchie and Representative Urdahl for their important work in establishing this task force, marking a significant moment in the history of our state and our nation," said Governor Mark Dayton.

Minnesota's Civil War veterans made enormous sacrifices to protect our fundamental rights and preserve our nation" said Secretary of State Mark Ritchie. "Commemorating the Civil War will give Minnesotans the opportunity to learn about the sacrifices of these brave veterans.

/governor/assets/EO-11-15.pdf_tcm1055-93458.pdfA copy of the Executive Order is attached. [PDF]