Minnesota’s Number 2 Makes Her 1st Skydive for Troops

ST. PAUL  (AP) - Minnesota's lieutenant governor plans to plummet 120 miles per hour toward the state Capitol Mall on Tuesday to show support for soldiers and their families.

Lt. Gov. Yvonne Prettner Solon is set to skydive for the first time, jumping from an altitude of 12,500 feet.

The 66-year-old Democratic politician will make the leap in tandem with a member of the U.S. Army Parachute Team, also known as the "Golden Knights."

Prettner Solon joins a list of politicians, including former President George H.W. Bush, who have taken to skydiving to promote causes or for recreation.

After a predicted safe landing, Prettner Solon is slated to join Gov. Mark Dayton and Secretary of State Mark Ritchie for a news conference highlighting a national initiative to support military families.

(Copyright 2012 by The Associated Press.  All Rights Reserved)