Wauconda gets thanks for GI efforts

The village of Wauconda continues to build a reputation for devoting itself to welcoming home every local military serviceman or servicewoman returning from a combat zone.

At the village board meeting Tuesday night, members of the national group Patriot Guard Riders honored the town for what the group called setting the standard for what it means to "welcome home" veterans.

"While it is true that we can never repay their sacrifice," Patriot Guard Riders communications coordinator Jeff Lockhart said, "Wauconda proudly announces to its heroes: 'Welcome home, thank you and we love you.' "

The Patriot Guard Riders are a national organization of motorcycle enthusiasts who shelter family members at military funerals and welcome home returning soldiers.

In Wauconda, the group has been involved in at least two large welcomes recently, those of Maj. Frank Bart and Army Spec. Joseph Cook. The village also has requested residents send to the village the names of any Wauconda residents serving in combat zones so that those men and women can also be welcomed home.

Mayor Salvatore Saccomanno has said the village will honor each returning veteran.

At the meeting Tuesday, Saccomanno said Wauconda was proud of its tradition of supporting those who sacrifice their lives on behalf of the nation.

"This is very special to us," he said, accepting a plaque from the Patriot Guard Riders and pins for police, fire and public works officials. "The mayor, himself a motorcycle rider, promised the village will continue its efforts. We want to maintain a leadership role."