A strong supporter of veterans and an advocate of veterans’ issues at the Statehouse, State Sen. Sue Rezin delivered two 60 inch flat screen televisions as a donation from Walmart and the Disabled American Veterans Chapter #86 to the Illinois Veterans’ Home in LaSalle Sept. 8.
“This is just a small token of our appreciation for the sacrifice our brave men and women made for our country,” Rezin said. “I have the privilege of visiting the Illinois Veterans’ Home in LaSalle often. I am always so inspired when talking with residents there. Our veterans are true American heroes who deserve the utmost respect and honor.”
“We thank Senator Rezin, Walmart and DV Chapter #86 for thinking of our heroes in the LaSalle Veterans Home. These men and women sacrificed so much for our country, it is truly appreciated that they are remembered,” said Illinois Department of Veterans’ Affairs Director Erica Jeffries.
“This donation means more than just two televisions going into the Illinois Veterans Home,” Rhode Bronk, Commander of the Disabled American Veterans, Chapter #86 said. “It shows that we as a community are committed to honoring our veterans in any way. It’s simple gestures like this that oftentimes have the most powerful impact.”
The televisions, provided by Walmart, were used during the 2016 Memorial Day Remembrance Wall, which was on display inside the capitol in Springfield May 26 through July 4, with the understanding that the televisions would ultimately be donated to a veterans organization. The televisions showed the names, images, and stories of Illinois veterans, which were submitted by family and friends from across the state. The Memorial Day Remembrance Wall was organized by the Illinois Senate Republican Caucus.
“It’s a tremendous joy whenever we can do something for those who have given so much for our country,” said State Sen. Jason Barickman (R-Bloomington), a veteran of the Illinois Army National Guard. “I hope this donation helps brighten the twilight years of the heroes who live at this home.”
“The Illinois Veterans’ Home in LaSalle is the perfect home for the televisions,” Rezin said. “The Illinois Veterans’ Home serves veterans from throughout Illinois and is a model for the services it offers. The caregivers always ensure the residents are cared for in the most respectful and honorable way.”