Washington, DC–(ENEWSPF)–May 28, 2013.  The Department of Defense announced today the death of a soldier who was supporting Operation Enduring Freedom. Spc. Christopher R. Drake, 20, of Tickfaw, La., died May 26, in Bagram, Afghanistan, of injuries sustained when his vehicle was attacked by a rocket propelled grenade.  He was[Read More…]

Attorney General’s Latest Publication Provides Much-Needed Guidance for Veterans, Family Chicago–(ENEWSPF)–May 28, 2013.  Attorney General Lisa Madigan announced the release of a new, updated publication detailing the federal and state benefits afforded to Illinois service members, veterans, their families and survivors. Produced by Madigan’s Military and Veterans’ Rights Bureau, the[Read More…]

1,000 Families Have Received Down Payment Assistance Through Welcome Home Heroes Program CHICAGO–(ENEWSPF)–May 28, 2013.  To honor military families this Memorial Day, Governor Pat Quinn on Saturday announced the investment of an additional $5 million in state capital funds to increase affordable homeownership opportunities under the Welcome Home Heroes program.[Read More…]

KABUL, Afghanistan–(ENEWSPF)–May 28, 2013 – An Afghan and coalition security force arrested a Haqqani leader and seven other insurgents during an operation in Gardez district, Paktiya province, today. The leader is responsible for kidnappings against Afghan civilians. He also coordinates the movement of weapons in the local area and plans[Read More…]

KABUL, Afghanistan–(ENEWSPF)–May 27, 2013 – An Afghan and coalition security force arrested a senior Taliban leader and eight other insurgents during an operation in Nad ‘Ali district, Helmand province, today. The senior leader oversees a direct action cell of fighters responsible for a series of attacks against Afghan and coalition[Read More…]

KABUL, Afghanistan–(ENEWSPF)–May 26, 2013 – Kabul, Afghanistan – An Afghan and coalition security force arrested a Haqqani high-profile attack facilitator and one other insurgent during an operation in Pul-e ‘Alam district, Logar province, today. The facilitator is responsible for coordinating weapons, improvised explosive devices and suicide attackers for use in[Read More…]

KABUL, Afghanistan–(ENEWSPF)–May 25, 2013 – An Afghan and coalition security force killed eight insurgents during an operation in search of a senior Taliban leader in Achin district, Nangarhar province, today. The leader has planned, coordinated and executed multiple attacks against Afghan government facilities, in addition to Afghan and coalition forces.[Read More…]

Washington, DC—(ENEWSPF)—May 24, 2013. BRIGADIER GENERAL LES KODLICK: Well, good morning, everybody. I’m Brigadier General Les Kodlick, director of public affairs. I’m privileged to welcome Secretary of the Air Force Mike Donley and the Air Force Chief of Staff General Mark Welsh to the Pentagon briefing about the state of[Read More…]

Washington, DC–(ENEWSPF)–May 24, 2013. Today, Congresswoman Tammy Duckworth (IL-08) issued the following statement on Memorial Day: On Memorial Day it is crucial that we remember those who have made our way of life possible. Throughout America’s history, thousands of brave men and women have kept us safe and protected the[Read More…]

Remembers Former St. Isaac Jogues Classmate and Congressional Medal of Honor Awardee Lance Corporal Lester Weber, USMC HINSDALE–(ENEWSPF)–May 24, 2013.   In honor of Memorial Day Weekend, Governor Pat Quinn today joined students at his grammar school alma mater, St. Isaac Jogues in Hinsdale, to remember our servicemembers who have[Read More…]