***PRESS RELEASE***
Springfield, Il – Secretary of State Jesse White hosted, “Preservig Their Memories” to honor veterans and their contributions to the Illinois Veterans’ History Project (IVHP) on November 2, 2017 at the Illinois State Library in Springfield. The IVHP honors Illinois veterans by documenting and preserving their experiences.
“The IVHP provides a place to honor our veterans as well as a memorial for those who have served our country” said White.
“Today, there are more than 6,000 records, submitted by veterans or their loved ones.”
“With this initiative, future generations will have a better understanding and appreciation of the sacrifices Illinois veterans have made.”
White, who served as a paratrooper in the 101st Airborne Division of the U.S. Army, was also a member of the Illinois National Guard, and a reservist.
As a state librarian and archivist, White initiated the IVHP in 2005 in conjunction with the Library of Congress, to provide a permanent record of the names, and stories of Illinois veterans and their families.
“With the use of technology, my office has been able to share over 450 personal history videos online through the IVHP YouTube channel,” said White, whose own video testimony is included in the project.
“It is my hope that the contributions of these veterans will live on and their experiences will not be forgotten.”
At the event, veterans were able to obtain an updated driver’s license or ID card with the word VETERAN displayed on the front of the card.
This designation helps ensure veterans living in Illinois, who have received an Honorable or General Under Honorable Conditions Discharge, receive veteran services and benefits.
Renysha Brown, Chief of Staff of the Illinois Veterans Affairs Joined White, and Jill Layton from the Illinois Court Reporters’ Association.
Throughout the day, volunteer court reporters transcribed accounts from veterans in attendance.
The event included musical performance by Glanwood High school’s Titan Fever Show Choir from Chatham, and trumpet player Richard Martin, a U.S. Marine Veteran.
The Veterans of Foreign Wars Lafore Lock Post 755 Honor Guard presented the colors.
Visit IVHP for more information on the project.
Press Release, and Photo courtesy of Jesse White; Secretary of State