SPRINGFIELD – In honor of the 19th anniversary of the cease fire announcement of the Persian Gulf War, the Illinois Department of Veterans’ Affairs (IDVA) held a memorial service today at the Capitol Rotunda in Springfield for the 14 Illinois service members who lost their lives during Operations Desert Shield and Desert Storm. Governor Pat Quinn issued a proclamation declaring Sunday, February 28th, 2010 as Desert Storm Remembrance Day in Illinois and encouraged all Illinoisans to join in on the worthy observance.
“With Sunday marking the 19th anniversary of the end of Operation Desert Storm, we take time to remember the brave men and women who gave their lives during the conflict,” IDVA Director Dan Grant said. “The state of Illinois lost fourteen courageous service members during Operations Desert Shield and Desert Storm, and today we renew our vow to always honor their memories and dedication to this nation.”
The text of the Governor’s proclamation follows:
WHEREAS, since the birth of this great nation, millions of brave American men and women have courageously answered the call to defend their country’s ideals of freedom and democracy; and
WHEREAS, eighteen years ago, over 600,000 members of the United States Armed Forces risked their lives in the Persian Gulf to liberate Kuwait during Operation Desert Storm, some making the ultimate sacrifice for their country; and
WHEREAS, the men and women who served in the United States Armed Forces during Operation Desert Storm have earned the gratitude and respect of their nation; and
WHEREAS, the observance of the 19th anniversary of Operation Desert Storm allows citizens throughout Illinois, and across the country, the opportunity to honor those who served during this conflict for their valor and selflessness:
THEREFORE, I, Pat Quinn, Governor of the State of Illinois, do hereby proclaim February 28, 2010 as DESERT STORM REMEMBRANCE DAY in Illinois, and urge all citizens to honor those who courageously served their country during Operation Desert Storm.
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