Sangamon Sun

Something needs to be done about the LaSalle COVID-19 outbreak last fall that claimed the lives of 36 veterans, and state Rep. Mike Murphy feels the reform should start in the Illinois Department of Veterans Affairs. 

The outbreak has been a sore spot for many lawmakers since last year; Republicans have called for a meeting to probe the mismanagement that worsened the outbreak, and Murphy was one of several lawmakers who are also veterans themselves to call on the governor for action in a May 18 press conference.

"[...] When I talk about veterans, I talk about my family," Murphy said. "I talk about my mom and dad. They were part of the greatest generation. They met in Pearl Harbor. They both joined soon after the attack."

The representative served in the U.S. Army from 1973-1976, including time overseas in the Republic of South Korea. He is involved in the American Legion and the VFW. His parents' service combined with his own makes the outbreak hit close to home. He pointed out that some soldiers' lives ended tragically during service. 

"[...] So when I think about the ideals of military service: duty, honor, placing the needs of protection of your fellow Americans before your own, these are more than just words," Murphy said. "It was instilled to me from a young age and I experienced it during my time in the military. Each veteran stepped up to the call to protect their fellow Americans."

Knowing that, Murphy is troubled at how the state failed to protect those who protected America. He is not the first nor the last to criticize the Pritzker administration's mismanagement of the tragedy. 

"It’s deeply troubling when we fail to protect them as they fought to protect us," the representative said. "We failed too many times and we must ensure we are not here again in another year because the administration’s failures to protect those who have stepped up to protect us. That’s the least we can do."