Press Release - Tuesday, August 27, 2013
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Murphysboro Man Named Illinois Veteran of the Month
CONTACT: Ryan Yantis
(312) 814-0778 ryan.yantis@illinois.gov
Du Quoin – The Illinois Department of Veterans’ Affairs recognized Raymond T. Batty, a U.S. Air Force veteran and 24-year volunteer for the General John A. Logan Museum located in Murphysboro, Illinois, as the Illinois Veteran of the Month for August 2013. Governor Pat Quinn has made veteran issues a top priority in his Administration, as part of his longstanding commitment to make Illinois the best state for veterans in the nation.
Batty was honored at a ceremony on Sunday, August 25during Veteran’s Day at the Du Quoin State Fair. The ceremony took place at the Senior Citizens Center with Illinois Department of Veterans Affairs Director Erica Borggren on hand to present the award and offer remarks.
“Ray Batty represents many of the great qualities of our Illinois veterans,” said Erica Borggren, Army veteran and Director, IDVA. “His efforts and steadfast service to the Logan Museum underscore his commitment to his fellow veterans and to keeping our heritage and history alive and accessible to all.”
In the Air Force, Batty served as a Radio Relay Equipment Repairman for over 3 years during the Korean War, including an 18-month assignment at Kadena Air Force Base, Okinawa, Japan. His awards include the National Defense Service Medal and the Good Conduct Medal.
Batty began his long service to the General John A. Logan Museum shortly after it opened in 1989, and that volunteer service continues today. In a wide variety of roles and trades, he has provided critical services, work and leadership on projects, renovations, grounds keeping and maintenance, saving the museum thousands of dollars each year in operational funds. His quiet volunteer contributions and efficient performance has become a critical part of the ongoing operations of the museum, which enjoys thousands of visitors every year.
Batty was nominated for consideration by P. Michael Jones, Director, the General John A. Logan Museum Murphysboro, Illinois.Maj. Gen. John A. Logan was a Union Army leader during the American Civil War and is credited with the establishment of Decoration Day, which is commonly observed annually as Memorial Day in modern times.
Under Governor Quinn’s leadership, Illinois is leading the nation in policies, programs and legislation to take care of the 10th largest veteran population in the country.
About Veteran of the Month
The Illinois Veteran of the Month Award is presented to veterans who continue to serve their communities after leaving the military and make a real difference in the lives of others. Each month the Department recognizes a different person or group that contributes to communities across the state of Illinois. To nominate a veteran for consideration, please visit veterans.illinois.gov for the guidelines and a nomination form. Each recipient is presented a proclamation signed by the Governor and the IDVA Director, as well as a state flag.
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