HR1245 95TH GENERAL ASSEMBLY

HR1245 LRB095 20932 KXB 49879 r

HOUSE RESOLUTION

WHEREAS, The members of the Illinois House of Representatives are pleased to honor the Sons of the American Legion Detachment of Illinois on their contributions and commitment to others; and

WHEREAS, The Detachment of Illinois is the fourth largest Detachment in the Central Region which includes Iowa, Ohio, Minnesota, Wisconsin, Michigan, Missouri, and Indiana; currently the Detachment ranks second in membership renewal; and

WHEREAS, The Detachment routinely contributes thousands of dollars to the Veterans and Children's programs within the American Legion; in 2008, with significant help from the Sons of the American Legion, the Legion Family has donated in excess of $20,000 to The Haven, a day lodge designed and operated for the purpose of providing a place for relaxation and recuperation for the hospitalized veterans located in the Marion VA Medical Center; and

WHEREAS, The total number of hours dedicated to community service and especially the scouting programs are astounding; membership is climbing throughout the State; there are 1,700 new members this year and the Detachment is striving to meet the National Goal of 14,547, based on last year's membership totals; and

WHEREAS, Nationally, the Sons of the American Legion donate almost three times more to Children's Programs than the rest of the Legion Family combined; the Detachment was integral in establishing the Toby Tire School Bus Safety Program within the State of Illinois, a model which is being closely viewed by other states within the region; and

WHEREAS, The Detachment Commander routinely travels more than 30,000 miles during his tenure; his travels include National Headquarters for training, and visiting the more than 240 Squadrons located throughout Illinois; he routinely spends in excess of $14,000 out of his own pocket to accomplish his tasks; and

WHEREAS, The rolls of Sons membership includes all walks of life from the newborns of veterans to the President of the United States; all members are equal and have equal voice in the organization, with the only difference being at which level you are serving and what responsibilities the positions entail; therefore, be it

RESOLVED, BY THE HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES OF THE NINETY-FIFTH GENERAL ASSEMBLY OF THE STATE OF ILLINOIS, that we honor the Sons of the American Legion Detachment of Illinois and commend them for their work on behalf of the people of the State of Illinois; and be it further

RESOLVED, That a suitable copy of this resolution be presented to the Sons of the American Legion Detachment of Illinois as a symbol of our respect and esteem.