At the May 23 House floor debate of HR1119, which honors those who have given the ultimate sacrifice, President Abraham Lincoln’s words from the Gettysburg Address filled the chamber.
“Four score and seven years ago, our fathers brought forth on this continent a new nation, conceived in liberty and dedicated to the proposition that all men are created equal,” Lincoln's words were read aloud as part of a House tradition.
Afterward, the names of soldiers from Illinois who were killed this past year -- including PO2 Logan Palmer, Pvt. Jamanni M. Gibson and Sgt. Marcos Gudino -- were read while taps played.
Rep. Jeanne Ives
Following the moment of reverence, state Rep. Jeanne Ives (R-Wheaton) shared the recent loss of her Uncle Leo, who served in Korea.
“I want to remind this body, it is not too late and that you should spend the time to listen and talk to members who have served in the military,” said Ives, who was fortunate enough to have spent time recently with her uncle.
Concluding, Ives said it was the military that is the instrument for peace, not politicians.
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