HR0159 96TH GENERAL ASSEMBLY

HR0159 LRB096 11769 KXB 23072 r

HOUSE RESOLUTION

WHEREAS, The members of the Illinois House of Representatives are pleased to honor Corporal Rafael "Ralph" Delgado for his service to the United States of America; and

WHEREAS, Corporal Rafael Delgado, or Ralph as he is known to the community leaders and his friends in the 40th district, was injured last summer by an improvised explosive device while serving in Iraq as part of the United States Army Reserves; he suffered a traumatic brain injury and is currently undergoing therapy at Walter Reed Medical Center in Washington D.C.; and

WHEREAS, Rafael "Ralph" Delgado worked for former State Representative Rich Bradley and was a huge presence in the community; he attended monthly police meetings, read books to kids, and dressed up as Santa Claus; and

WHEREAS, In cold weather he would volunteer to shovel the walks of the elderly, in warm weather he would volunteer at the parks; he is an active member of his church, and ran a church men's softball team; he would donate his own money for Brands Park's Halloween party and for Independence Park's Brunch with Santa; and

WHEREAS, He is good with kids and belonged to the advisory council of Brands Park and helped the park buy new ceiling tiles; he also helped to push for a playground at the park, which is breaking ground this summer; and

WHEREAS, He, his wife, his mother, and his children are vital and valued citizens of the State of Illinois; therefore, be it

RESOLVED, BY THE HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES OF THE NINETY-SIXTH GENERAL ASSEMBLY OF THE STATE OF ILLINOIS, that we honor Corporal Delgado for his service to his country and wish him a speedy recovery; and be it further

RESOLVED, That a suitable copy of this resolution be presented to Corporal Rafael "Ralph" Delgado as a symbol of our respect and admiration.