The Illinois Department of Veterans Affairs, State Sen. Sue Rezin (R-Peru), and the Illinois Senate Republican caucus are teaming up to honor and remember the sacrifice of the brave servicemen and servicewomen who have passed away.
The public is encouraged to submit a photograph and written remembrance of veterans who are no longer with us, which will be displayed on the Illinois State Capitol Memorial Day Remembrance Wall. The submissions will be displayed in the State Capitol Rotunda starting on Memorial Day, Thursday, May 26 through Monday, July 4.
“We can never do enough to honor those who fought so bravely for the freedoms we enjoy today,” Rezin said. “The Memorial Day Remembrance Wall allows Illinoisans and visitors to the capitol to see the names and pictures of so many brave men and women and remember their sacrifice and dedication to democracy, values, and freedom. It’s a tribute to them and a way for their family to honor them.”
“We all know, freedom has a price. The veterans we honor at this memorial paid the ultimate price so that we may enjoy the freedoms we have today,” said Illinois Department of Veterans’ Affairs Director Erica Jeffries. “If we have learned anything from the conflicts of our past and present, it’s that courage and sacrifice are a significant part of every generation. It is our responsibility to ensure that our veterans’ sacrifices are never forgotten.” added Director Jeffries.
Any deceased veteran can be honored (the veteran didn’t have to perish while serving). Director Jeffries and Sen. Rezin are encouraging the public to email a photo and written remembrance (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 and Iraq, September 11, Gulf War, Vietnam, Korea, WWII, WWI, Peacetime, Other) to
MemorialDay@senategop.state.il.us. Military photos are preferred but not necessary.
The deadline for submission is Monday, May 23. Submissions by mail are also acceptable. Please send the information and photo to:
Memorial Day Remembrance Wall
309G State House
Springfield, IL 62706
Questions can be directed to (217) 782-1650.
To see the Memorial Day Remembrance Wall slideshow from last year, click
here. You can also view this video about the display from last year to see how loved ones will be remembered in the Capitol.