HR0900 100TH GENERAL ASSEMBLY

HR0900 LRB100 21143 ALS 37124 r

HOUSE RESOLUTION

WHEREAS, The members of the Illinois House of Representatives wish to congratulate John Grey of Winchester as he celebrates 40 years as Sergeant at Arms of the Julian Wells Post 442 American Legion; we also recognize his dedication in leading said Post at every parade and public event in Winchester and throughout Scott County, including the Fourth of July parades and the World Famous Burgoo Festival; and

WHEREAS, John Grey served in the United States Army for two years and was a member of the Fourth Infantry Division in Vietnam, where he was with the first American ground unit to fight in Cambodia; he received many medals for his distinguished service to his country, including two Purple Hearts, the Combat Infantryman's Badge, and the Republic of Vietnam Gallantry Cross with Palm; and

WHEREAS, After he was discharged from the Army, John Grey continued his public service by working as a mail carrier in the City of Winchester for 33 years; he accumulated more than 112,000 miles by walking and running his route; he added countless more miles with his training for marathons; and

WHEREAS, John Grey ran for the Winchester Community Unit School District Board and won three elections; he also shared his knowledge and love of running by first volunteering for, and then coaching, the track teams for both boys and girls; and

WHEREAS, John Grey's service in Vietnam continues to affect his health, as he still has shrapnel in his leg and is battling cancer due to the side effects of Agent Orange; despite these challenges, he maintains a positive attitude; and

WHEREAS, When asked about his birthday, John Grey always states that it is on All Saint's Day before he says November 1, a request by his grandmother that he still honors; and

WHEREAS, John Grey is devoted to his two daughters, Hannah and Cassie, and to his grandchildren, Carmen and Eli, his siblings, Elaine Fletcher, Nancy Main, Laura Wood, Barb Harbison, and Tom Grey, and all of his nieces and nephews; therefore, be it

RESOLVED, BY THE HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES OF THE ONE HUNDREDTH GENERAL ASSEMBLY OF THE STATE OF ILLINOIS, that we congratulate John Grey for his service to his country, the State of Illinois, and the community and students of Winchester; and be it further

RESOLVED, That a suitable copy of this resolution be presented to John Grey as an expression of our esteem and respect.