A press release from State Senator Karen McConnaughay:
McConnaughay: Public encouraged to submit veterans’ stories, pictures to be showcased in a tribute at the Illinois Statehouse
Springfield, IL – Stressing the importance of honoring the legacy and sacrifice of United States veterans this upcoming Veterans Day, state Sen. Karen McConnaughay (R-St. Charles) is encouraging constituents to submit a tribute and photo of their loved one who served our country to be displayed in the rotunda of the Illinois Capitol Nov. 1 through Nov. 13.
Illinois State Capitol
“Our military men and women have answered the call to serve this country, and they are deserving of the upmost respect and gratitude,” said McConnaughay.
“This tribute is just one small way to demonstrate how appreciative we are of the sacrifices they have made to protect the many freedoms we all enjoy on a daily basis. It also provides an excellent opportunity for us to learn more about the men and women who have lived and served our nation, but whose stories often go untold.”
Families are to submit a photo and written story (max: 250 words) along with the following information: name, military branch (Air Force, Army, Coast Guard, Marine Corps, National Guard, Navy) and conflict served (Afghanistan, Iraq, September 11, Gulf War, Vietnam, Korea, WWII, WWI, Peacetime, other). Military photos are preferred but not necessary.
Please email submissions to veteransday@sgop.ilga.gov by Oct. 30. Submissions can also be mailed to Veterans Day Wall, 309 G Statehouse, Springfield, IL 62706. For questions, call 217-782-1650.
The Illinois Department of Veterans’ Affairs is also partnering with Sen. McConnaughay on this tribute to veterans.
“This Veterans Day, let us remember the service of our veterans, and let us renew our national promise to fulfill our sacred obligations to our Illinois Heroes and their families who have sacrificed so much so that we can live free every day of our lives,” said Erica Jeffries, Director of the Illinois Department of Veterans’ Affairs.
For those who submit a tribute and would like to visit the Capitol to see their loved ones story on display, you can check out this video before you travel to Springfield.