CHICAGO (CBS) — This Veterans Day, leaders from the city of Chicago, Cook County and the state of Illinois all gathered at Soldier Field to honor the men and women who protect our country.
Veterans who have fought in every war since World War II filled the United Club at Soldier Field on Monday for the event. Mayor Brandon Johnson, Cook County Board Chairman Toni Preckwinkle and Illinois Governor JB Pritzker were all in attendance, along with active duty members of the military.
“The sacrifices you have made – each and every one of you – have brought safety and security, comfort and prosperity to untold numbers of people and their communities,” Pritzker said, “and for that this nation owes a debt of gratitude to all of our soldiers. an enormous debt of gratitude.”
Ald. Gilbert Villegas (36th) is a veteran himself: a former US Marine who served during the Gulf War in 1990 and 1991.
“What this day means to me is that it provides a moment to remember not only those who served, but why they served,” Villegas said at the event. “Veterans represent the best of us: courage, resilience and an unwavering commitment to service.”
During the ceremony, Mayor Johnson issued a special resolution to make Chicago a Purple Heart City for retired Illinois Air National Guard Lt. Col. Eldridge Johnson Jr.
Among many other accomplishments, Lt. Col. Johnson was the first African-American pilot in the Illinois National Guard.
A wreath was also placed at the monument on Soldier Field.
