Dist. 211 honors Hoffman Estates H.S. alumnus for military service

This year, District 211 started a tradition to honor alumni for the service they have given to their country.

Hoffman Estates High School alumnus and Private First Class Daniel Vazquez was honored and thanked for his service in the National Guard by the board of education at its Feb. 12 meeting. Vazquez is the fourth alumnus to be recognized for his service and started the meeting by leading the Pledge of Allegiance.

Vazquez graduated from Hoffman Estates High School in 2013, and completed basic training at Fort Benning in February, 2014. He earned an expert marksmanship badge, as well as a blue infantry cord. Additionally, he earned two ribbons - one for completing training and another for joining during a time of war.

As a student at Hoffman Estates High School, Vazquez said he knew he wanted to go to college but was not always interested in the military. However, he said joining the military has afforded him many opportunities.

"Senior year is when I thought about it more and started looking it up and seeing what branch I would join," he said. "I ended up wanting to go to school, but joined the military first after I graduated."

He is currently a student at Harper College and is studying to earn a degree in criminal justice. He said joining the National Guard was a way for him to reach his educational goals and better himself in the process. He recommends the military if students are interested.

"If students are interested in the military, they want to still be at home and get an education, the National Guard is the way to go," he said. "The training is hard, but it is really rewarding when you finish it. You are in better shape, you have more discipline, and you are much better person for doing it."

The board of education will continue Military Recognitions for District 211 graduates who are serving or have served before each meeting.

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