Governor Quinn Proclaims Larry "The Flag Man" Eckhardt Day

WHEREAS, throughout our nation’s history, America’s men and women in uniform have demonstrated bravery and courage in the face of danger; and,

WHEREAS, our veterans answered the call to duty with honor, decency and selflessness; and,

WHEREAS, as we recall the service of our Soldiers, Sailors, Airmen, Marines, and Coast Guardsmen, we are reminded that the defense of freedom comes with great loss and sacrifice; and,

WHEREAS, it is our obligation to ensure the sacrifice of these heroes is never forgotten. Our veterans represent the best of America, and they deserve everything we can give them; and,

WHEREAS, Larry Eckhardt of Little York, Illinois has met and surpassed the obligation of honoring the fallen by placing American flags along the funeral procession route of servicemembers who have died in the line of duty; and,

WHEREAS, Larry “The Flag Man” Eckhardt began this project in 2006 with 150 flags, and has since coordinated the planting of flags along funeral routes of more than 50 Soldiers, Sailors, Airmen, Marines and Coast Guardsmen; and,

WHEREAS, Larry “The Flag Man” Eckhardt has inspired countless individuals and groups to aid in honoring these heroes. Hundreds of volunteers have lent their support including Boy Scout Troops, American Legion and VFW Posts; and,

WHEREAS, it is important that we recognize not only true patriots of freedom, liberty and democracy who serve overseas, but the people who support and honor them back home; and,

THEREFORE, I, Pat Quinn, Governor of the State of Illinois, do hereby proclaim June 14, 2012 as LARRY “THE FLAG MAN” ECKHARDT DAY in Illinois, and encourage all Americans to recognize and honor the sacrifice of our veterans.