Republican lawmakers and Gov. Bruce Rauner opened the third annual Memorial Day Wall of Remembrance display earlier this summer in the Illinois Capitol Rotunda, according to a press release.
Illinois Department of Veterans’ Affairs Director Erica Jefferies also was on hand for the unveiling.
The Wall of Remembrance honors Illinois veterans with photographs and written remembrances.
“The freedom we enjoy today is a direct result of the ultimate sacrifice made by so many brave Americans who put love of country first,” Rauner said, according to the release. “This Wall of Remembrance is a way for all Illinoisans who visit our Capitol to pay homage to true American heroes.”
Senate Republican Leader Christine Radogno (R-Lemont) encouraged visitors to place notes of gratitude on the wall to honor those who have served the nation.
““This display is a somber memorial to America’s true heroes,” she said, according to the release. "Those we honor answered the call to protect us, and in doing so gave their lives to ensure our freedom was preserve. We owe them our deepest gratitude and support.”
Jeffries said the event remembers Illinois residents who gave their lives in service.
“We are reminded that freedom is not free,” he said. “We will never forget these Illinois heroes who offered the ultimate sacrifice for our country.”
Alerts Sign-up