Oberweis: Submit veterans' stories to be showcased at Capitol

SPRINGFIELD – As Veterans Day approaches, State Sen. Jim Oberweis (R-Sugar Grove) is asking constituents to submit a photo and tribute to a loved one who has served in the United States Armed Forces to be displayed on the Veterans Day “Wall of Honor” in the Illinois State Capitol, Nov. 4-15.

“We can never find the words adequate to thank our Armed Services for leaving their families and homes to defend our nation. Freedom is not free, and our nation is indebted to these brave men and women,” Oberweis said. “We can honor them, however, and let the world know that we are thankful for their sacrifices to protect us.”

Families are asked to submit photos and written stories (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 Nov. 3. Submissions can also be mailed to Veterans Day Wall, 309 G Statehouse, Springfield, IL 62706. For questions, call 217-782-7330.

For those who submit a tribute and would like to visit the Capitol to see their loved one’s story on display, check out this video (see below) before traveling to Springfield.