Saturday is Desert Storm Remembrance Day in Illinois

[February 27, 2009]  SPRINGFIELD -- In honor of the 18th anniversary of the cease-fire announcement of the Persian Gulf War, the Illinois Department of Veterans' Affairs had a memorial service Thursday at the Howlett Building Hall of Flags in Springfield for the 14 Illinois service members who lost their lives during Operations Desert Shield and Desert Storm. Gov. Pat Quinn issued a proclamation declaring Saturday as Desert Storm Remembrance Day in Illinois and encouraged all Illinoisans to join the worthy observance.

"With Saturday marking the 18th 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," said IDVA Director Dan Grant. "The state of Illinois lost 14 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 18th 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, 2009 as DESERT STORM REMEMBRANCE DAY in Illinois, and urge all citizens to honor those who courageously served their country during Operation Desert Storm.

[Text from Illinois Department of Veterans' Affairs file received from the Illinois Office of Communication and Information]