Inaugural Issue and Welcome

We are pleased to provide you with the first issue of the Department of Illinois American Legion 11th District Dispatch.

All 11th District Post, Commanders, Sr. Vice Commanders, and Adjutants are subscribed and are encouraged to share this newsletter with others.

A collection of Mark Hutson's service flags on display at the Department of Illinois convention. (Photo via Austin May)

Custom Gold Star service flag to be unveiled in October. 

An Illinois county is gaining a clearer picture of its Gold Star natives through a history project years in the making.

Introducing the stories of 10 women veterans – a small segment of the many women who have served our country and communities.

Military service is just that: a choice made to serve. Perhaps it’s because of their nature, or perhaps it’s because of their training, but many female soldiers find they have the capacity and drive to serve in ways beyond their initial military service. Several McHenry County women exemplify this notion of serving beyond their military enlistment. Learn more about them here.

What started as a one-day event to honor women veterans has transformed into a multi-faceted, lasting art installation and reminder that women in uniform deserve recognition.

Introducing the stories of 12 women veterans – a small segment of the many women who have served our country and communities.

Senior Vice Commander Robert Dorn and Commander Charlie Morgan were featured on the American Legion national organization’s website to talk about Vets 4 Veterans and Blue Families, a daylong program that brought together resources for veterans, first responders and their families.

On June 11 2022, American Legion Post 171 in Crystal Lake hosted Vets 4 Veterans and Blue Families, a daylong program that brought together resources for veterans, first responders and their families.