DENVER (1/24/11) – The Colorado General Assembly hosted a Colorado Military and Veterans Appreciation Day at the State Capitol Jan. 24.

Gov. John Hickenlooper and Maj. Gen. H. Michael Edwards, the Adjutant General of Colorado, spoke to about 50 veterans, Colorado National Guardsmen and active duty military members during a breakfast reception sponsored by the National Guard Association of Colorado.

“We are grateful for the over $4 billion that Colorado's military installations put into our economy – not to mention the thousands of jobs that these installations create,” the governor said during his first public address since his inauguration Jan. 11. “The real story here is how our military is working not just to keep this state, but this country, safe.”

“It’s a great day here in Colorado where we recognize those who have served in the past and those who are currently serving,” said Edwards.

According to Edwards, more than 420,000 veterans live in Colorado.

“This state supports our veterans,” he said.

The governor reappointed Edwards the post of executive director of the Colorado Department of Military and Veterans Affairs earlier this month.

“I want to commend Maj. Gen. Edwards, who's worked tirelessly for the benefit of veterans and military members in our state,” the governor said.

Rep. Mark Waller and Rep. Nancy Todd were the primary legislative sponsors of the General Assembly event.

“I am so pleased for the turnout for Military Day. It will be a grand day for Colorado to salute all of their military members,” Todd said.

Todd, along with Rep. Jeanne Lubuda and Rep. B.J. Nikkel, paid a special tribute to Brig. Gen. Dana M. Capozzella, Assistant Adjutant General for the Army, who commands the Colorado Army National Guard.

“Brig. Gen. Capozzella has served her country with dignity and honor for 21 years,” Todd said. “She is a business leader, Citizen-Soldier and patriot.”

For almost as many years, Capozzella has worked for an independent stock brokerage firm, for which she is a partner. As a traditional Guard member, she works both in the civilian community while serving in the Colorado National Guard.

Capozzella was promoted to the rank of brigadier general last year.

“I have worked with the brigadier general, and I know she will be a very good leader for Colorado,” Labuda said.

“Our state is poised for growth because of the wonderful partnership between the state and its citizens, who are veterans and active duty, National Guard, and Reserve service members,” Capozzella said. “This partnership makes us all part of one large team.”

The Colorado Army National Guard State Honor Guard rendered military honors during the General Assembly session.

Representatives passed three house joint resolutions recognizing the service and sacrifice of veterans, military members, and their families who have called Colorado home.