This weekend Tammy, my Mom and I drove to the Cantigny 1st Division Memorial and Museum at Wheaton. I recognized COL Robert McCormick’s contributions at the battle of Cantigny, France, during World War I, as well as his role as founder and publisher of the Chicago Tribune, establishment of Cantigny park and many others.
I presented House Resolution 263 which was adopted on April 23, 2025. A plaque with the words from the resolution was unveiled at the recognition of the Army’s 250th Birthday and the career of Colonel Robert McCormick by the Doughboy statue at Cantigny, 1st Division Memorial. I also presented an Illinois flag flown over the Capitol to Matt Lafond, Executive Director, Cantigny.
Those in attendance included Medal of Honor recipient First Sergeant Allen Lynch, Major General James Mukoyama, former 1st Division Commander and former Secretary of State Jesse White.
After the plaque was unveiled a luncheon and award ceremony was held in the Education Center. Two businesses were recognized for their support to guard and reserve members during military duties through the Employer Support of the Guard and Reserve (ESGR). Additionally Secretary White was recognized by the Military Order of World Wars MOWW. I was inducted into the MOWW, a great unexpected honor. MOH Lynch and MG Mukoyama spoke at the luncheon.
An awesome day, at an outstanding event in a beautiful park with a group of patriotic men and women
AUSA (Association United States Army) was the lead host, followed by the MOWW, ROA (Retired Officer Association), MOAA (Military Officers Association of America) American Legion, VFW (Veterans of Foreign Wars), AmVets (American Veterans) and DAV (Disabled American Veterans).