Issue Position: National Guard and Veterans

Issue Position

I'm concerned Illinois service men, women and veterans do not have a strong enough voice in numbers in the House. We need a vocal group to ensure longevity and viability of our units. The Army is in the process of a Redesign or restructuring of active component and National Guard Forces. Currently, we have 3 Armories and 5 military units in the 74th District. The economic impact to each of the communities is substantial in wages, up keep of the facilities; utilities, fuel, meals and today's National Guard soldiers travel greater distance to serve in a unit for promotion opportunities. An act of terrorism in Illinois is not "if" but "when". I will support and provide a strong voice for our National Guard men and women to ensure they remain a viable, well equipped with modern equipment and remain in our communities.

Our veterans deserve the best in health care. Through my Superintendent's mission, I am able to serve many veterans throughout Henry County and keep in touch with their needs and services. But a recent event reminded me, how fragile our veterans are. Recently, I had a Korean War Veteran with two Purple Hearts come in to my office seeking assistance. After visiting with this hero and his son, I learned he wasn't enrolled in the VA healthcare system-a simple task, if one has automation skills. One phone call and 30 minutes later, the veteran was enrolled in the VA Healthcare system. How can we better serve our heroes? My vision is r that we engage the Illinois Department of Veterans Affairs and other appropirate State Agencies to participate in a collaborative effort assemble an active campaign through a series of radio and TV Public Service Announcements. During the few months Governor Rauner has been in office, he has passed legislation improving veteran's services, but there is more to do! I will lead the charge to better serve, communicate and reach out to our veterans.

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