More communities rename Route 173 in honor of airborne brigade

With the passing of Hebron's Resolution, there are now four communities along Route 173 which have designated that roadway the 173rd Airborne Brigade Highway: Harvard, Antioch, Richmond and Hebron.

As these communities voted the resolution, each were presented with a Certificate of Appreciation. While Chapter VI continues to work with each of the remaining communities along the highway to request passage of such resolutions, the representatives and senators representing districts along Route 173 as well as those representing New Lenox, which was the home of the first Sky Soldier Killed in Action during the 173rd's current deployment to Afghanistan, have been asked to designate the entire length of that roadway as the 173rd Airborne Brigade Highway.

This request has been made to recognize the men and women from Illinois who are currently serving and have served as members of this 90-year-old unit. Formed in 1917 during WWI, serving with Patton from the Battle of the Bulge to the surrender of Germany, First In - Last Out Army Combat Unit in Vietnam, 2003 Iraq War and two deployments to Afghanistan, the Herd has a proud history of service. It's members are looking forward to its legislators' favorable action in dedicating this highway to the sons and daughters of Illinois who serve or have served as members of the 173rd Airborne Brigade.

The final dedication will be a Car-A-Van of Sky Soldiers, past and present, driving the length of the Brigade's Highway to thank the legislators and communities for its support and recognition.

For information, contact Bob "Ragman" Getz at rgetz173@yahoo.com, (847) 214-1245 or (630) 777-8574.