Brigadier General (retired) Wayne Rosenthal was named “Legislator of the Year” by the National Guard Association of Illinois at its annual dinner on April 24 in Normal, Illinois.
The association said Rosenthal has “consistently engaged on issues impacting service members, veterans, and military families, with a strong focus on policies that strengthen the Illinois National Guard’s ability to meet both state and federal missions.”
Rosenthal responded to the award by saying, “I am truly honored to receive the National Guard Legislator of the Year award. To be recognized by the men and women of the National Guard is incredibly humbling. My time serving in the Illinois National Guard and the United States Air Force shaped who I am today. It taught me the value of discipline, teamwork, and service above self. Those lessons didn’t end when I took off the uniform; they continue to guide me every day in the legislature. This award is not just about me. It reflects the work we are doing together to support our service members, veterans, and their families. They make sacrifices most will never fully see, balancing careers, families, and the call to serve at a moment’s notice. They deserve our full support, not just in words but in action.”
Rosenthal serves as state representative for Illinois’ 108th District, which includes Menard County as well as parts of Christian, Macoupin, Montgomery and Sangamon Counties.
Rosenthal was elected as a Republican to represent this district in 2023 after replacing former state representative Charles Meier according to available information.
The recognition from a statewide organization highlights ongoing efforts within government circles to address concerns facing military personnel and their loved ones.
