Sangamon Sun

State Rep. Tim Butler (R-Springfield) was among the many lawmakers who did not forget to honor the fallen service members who made the ultimate sacrifice in serving the country.

After recognizing the heroism exhibited by members of the U.S. Armed Forces, Butler also heaped praise on new recruits to the military.

"One of the things I am always amazed about on Memorial Day – the day that we honor those who've given the sacrifice with their lives to defend this nation – is that we continue to have Americans step forward to serve," Butler said.

The Republican lawmaker from Springfield mentioned a constituent, who is among a number of young people stepping up and heeding the call to defend America's freedom.

"I'd just like to honor one young man, a constituent of the 87th district, J.C. Coonrod, a 2020 graduate of Athens who leaves tomorrow for basic training at Lackland Air Force Base," Butler said. Butler said Coonrod would represent the fourth generation of his family to serve in the military. “It is awe-inspiring to see young people continue to step forward to serve in our nation's military.”

Butler also showed gratitude to a group of House members who visited the Illinois War Memorial at Oak Ridge Cemetery. He also called on citizens to reflect on the sacrifices made by the nation's service members.

“I'd also like to thank Rep. [Dan] Swanson and the many members who turned out this morning at Oak Ridge Cemetery for a nice little Memorial Day ceremony we had at the War Memorial out there.”

Butler closed his statement with a reminder "Please, on this Memorial Day 2021, take a few moments to reflect on those who have died in military service to the United States of America."