(The Center Square) – The Memorial Day 2025 Wall of Remembrance is on display at the Illinois State Capitol in Springfield.
Illinois Senate Republicans unveiled the tribute Thursday. The wall includes photos and remembrances that cycle on a large screen in the Capitol rotunda.
State Sen. Jason Plummer, R-Edwardsville, served as an officer in the U.S. Navy Reserve.
“This powerful tribute honors the brave men and women who have made the ultimate sacrifice in defense of our country,” Plummer said.
State Sen. Li Arellano, R-Dixon, is an Army Engineers staff sergeant in the U.S. Army Reserves. Arellano served on combat tours in the Middle East.
“For me and for many soldiers, it’s also about honoring and respecting the families who lost those veterans. As we commemorate Memorial Day, I ask you to join me in remembering and honoring our fallen brothers and sisters who gave everything so that we might live in freedom,” Arellano said.
State Sen. Craig Wilcox, R-McHenry, is a retired Air Force colonel.
“We must remember it is not just a long weekend for the start of summer, but it is a sacred time to pause and to remember and to reflect on the cost of our freedom,” Wilcox said.
Wilcox spent 24 years in the U.S. Air Force and said he lost a member in the line of duty while he was a commander on active duty. He said the wall is a tribute to the brave men and women who gave their lives in sacrifice to the nation.
“As we stand in the presence of their memory, let us recommit ourselves to living lives worthy of their sacrifice,” Wilcox said.
Illinoisans were encouraged to submit photos and written remembrances in honor of those who died in service to their state and country. The public is also invited to leave a personal message of thanks at the tribute display.
The Wall of Remembrance is open to the public during regular Capitol business hours and is scheduled to remain on display through June.
