Honoring Our Veterans Since November 11th, 1919

Veterans Day, since November 11th, 1919, has been celebrated annually in the United States as a way to show gratitude to those who have selflessly served in one of the branches of the United States military.When our county needed them, Veterans stepped up answering the call to serve with distinction. Our nation's Veterans swore a solemn oath to support and defend our Constitution and through their courage, sacrifice and commitment, they defended our freedoms.

The holiday grew out of the commemoration of Armistice Day, the Department of Veterans Affairs says, when fighting between the Allied countries and Germany ended on the 11th hour of the 11th day of the 11th month. It was to have been the end of "the war to end all wars," and is observed annually on Nov. 11, no matter what day of the week that date falls.

President Woodrow Wilson inaugurated the first celebration in 1919, with parades and a brief break in business starting at 11 a.m.

Veterans Day continues to be boldly celebrated through parades, commemorative events, and more to proudly show our support and thanks to those who bravely stepped up and wore the uniform to defend our freedoms.

State Representative Mike Coffey is a staunch supporter of veterans and continues to be their voice in the 95th District and at the Capitol. He has supported several pieces of legislation that benefits veterans and their families in Illinois.

The Illinois House Republicans are proud to honor the service of our Caucus members who served in a branch of the U.S. Armed Forces; Rep. David Friess (R-Red Bud), Rep. Paul Jacobs (R-Pomona), Rep. Wayne Rosenthal (R-Morrisonville), Rep. Dan Swanson, (R-Alpha), Rep. Brandun Schweizer (R-Danville), and Rep. Blaine Wilhour (R-Beecher City).

This Veterans Day, take the time to attend a community event or parade and thank a veteran for their service to our nation.

Illinois Joining Forces Support Veterans in Our Communities

llinois Joining Forces (IJF) was launched in 2012 through an inter-governmental agreement between the Illinois Departments of Veterans' Affairs (IDVA) and Military Affairs (IDMA) as a statewide, public-private network of military and veteran-serving organizations working together to improve services for Service Members, Veterans, and their Families (SMVF)…LEARN MORE