“We owe the freedoms we all enjoy and too often take for granted to our veterans and to those who are serving right now,” Congressman Lipinski said. “Just last week we received a terrible reminder of the risks that our troops take for us on a daily basis when a Chinook helicopter was shot down in Afghanistan, killing 30 brave members of our Armed Forces. Today, we are honoring all those who serve, but especially those who were wounded or injured while at war. It is our responsibility as a nation to see to it that everyone who fights for our country receives the care they deserve. After a decade at war, there are thousands more combat veterans whose bodies will forever bear witness to the sacrifices they have made. Our wounded warriors can never forget their service, and neither should we. It’s a great honor for me to be able to thank in person these veterans and honor the enormous contributions they have made to our country.”

The Silver Star Service Banner is awarded by the Silver Star Families of America to members of the military who were wounded, injured, or became seriously ill while serving in a war zone. In 2004 the organization revived the tradition of using a silver star to represent a member of the Armed Forces wounded in combat.

Friday’s recipients include veterans of the Afghanistan, Iraq, Vietnam, and Korean wars who represent the following cities and towns: Riverside, Berwyn, Franklin Park, Chicago, Burr Ridge, Westchester, La Grange, Frankfort, Forest Park, and Summit. Congressman Lipinski presented each veteran with a copy of a statement honoring their service that will be placed in the Congressional Record.

(August 12, 2011)              

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