Mayor Robert T. Barnett declared November as Veterans and Military Families Month in Downers Grove on Tuesday, Nov. 3.
The proclamation asks residents, businesses and guests to honor veterans and their families in three ways: recognize that military service is separate from the politics of war, volunteer or donate to veteran and food assistance groups, and engage military families as neighbors.
Barnett specifically named four local food assistance organizations where residents can direct support: the FISH Pantry, Hope's Front Door, People's Resource Center and the West Suburban Community Pantry. The proclamation also pointed to national groups including the American Legion, VFW, Blue Star Families, Operation Homefront and the National Military Family Association.
The document traces the observance to 1996, when the Armed Services YMCA established Military Family Month. It notes that Veterans Day, observed each Nov. 11, has roots in the World War I armistice of 1918 and was expanded in 1954 to honor all U.S. veterans.
Barnett's proclamation cited Department of Defense figures showing more than 2.3 million immediate family members of active-duty, Reserve and National Guard personnel nationwide. The proclamation stated that nearly one in four military families experience food insecurity and that half report feeling isolated from their communities.
Upcoming
The Downers Grove Park District has a related event on its November calendar. "Honoring Our Heroes: A Veterans Day Pop-Up Exhibit" is scheduled for 1 to 3 p.m. on Wednesday, Nov. 11.
