To help remember veterans, tell their incredible stories, and honor their legacy and sacrifice this upcoming Veterans Day, State Sen. Dave Syverson (R-Rockford) is encouraging constituents to submit a tribute and photo of their loved one who served our country to be displayed in the rotunda of the Illinois Capitol Nov. 1-Nov. 13.

 “It’s important that we never forget the brave service of our veterans,” said Syverson. “Please help us share the individual stories of those who sacrificed so much to defend our way of life.”

Families are to submit a photo and written story (max: 250 words) along with the following information: name, military branch (Air Force, Army, Coast Guard, Marine Corps, National Guard, Navy) and conflict served (Afghanistan, Iraq, September 11, Gulf War, Vietnam, Korea, WWII, WWI, Peacetime, other). Military photos are preferred but not necessary.

Please email submissions to veteransday@sgop.ilga.gov by Oct. 30. Submissions can also be mailed to Veterans Day Wall, 309 G Statehouse, Springfield, IL 62706. For questions, call 217-782-1650.

The Illinois Department of Veterans’ Affairs is also partnering with Sen. Syverson on this tribute to veterans. 

“This Veterans Day, let us remember the service of our veterans, and let us renew our national promise to fulfill our sacred obligations to our Illinois Heroes and their families who have sacrificed so much so that we can live free every day of our lives,” said Erica Jeffries, Director of the Illinois Department of Veterans’ Affairs.

For those who submit a tribute and would like to visit the Capitol to see their loved ones story on display, you can check out this video before you travel to Springfield.