MOAA at the Illinois State Fairs - 2023
The Illinois Chapter of the Military Officers Association of America (MOAA) had a booth and presence at the Illinois State Fair on Sunday, August 13, 2023 - Veterans Date at the State Fair,
and at the DuQuoin State Fair on August 27, 2023
Greetings from the Illinois State Fair(s). We had good representation at both State Fairs this year. Several of us enjoyed excellent weather on August 13 for the Springfield Fair. While there, I had some time to chat with the Lt. Governor about her Veteran Transition working group. We listened to our own Dr. Mark DePue recount American war stories from his veteran interviews.
Col Richard Smith and I took in the Du Quoin Fair on August 27th. It is different from the Springfield fair, but very reaffirming of those who have served. We got good “face time” with the Director of the IDVA and with several of the Illinois Guard’s Survivor Outreach coordinators for the lower half of the state. I think all of us who attended the Fairs this year would say that it was a good experience. And as we know, it is always good to get a measure of name recognition within the VSO community.
Below are a few photos at the Fairs
Illinois State Fair
August 13, 2023
Dr. Mark DePue, Lincoln Land chapter member giving his war stories from veteran interviews presentation (at the Lincoln Stage) and the beginning of the Veterans' parade at the Springfield Fair.
DuQuoin State Fair
August 27, 2023
Col Bob Tyler (Illinois Council of Chapter President - center) talking with southern region's Army Guard Survivor Outreach Coordinators - Sheila Forristall (left) and Tina Fletcher (right).
The DuQuoin State Fair Queen, with Col Sith and Col Tyhler
Illinois Director of Veteran Affairs Terry Prince
Jerry Costello, the Director of the Illinois Department of Agriculture.
