FREEDOM FEST celebration scheduled July 11 to run from 6:00 p.m. until midnight at the Springfield Convention Center, features Rolling Stones cover band, Jack Flash

For Immediate Release

BLOOMINGTON, Ill./EWORLDWIRE/June 5, 2008 --- After the final fireworks twinkle out at Fourth of July celebrations, in Illinois, the recognition of the significance of the celebrations will extend through the following week as the Illinois American Legion pays homage to American service personnel at the Illinois American Legion State Convention.

A mantra that has become synonymous with the sacrifice of military personnel made in the line of duty - "All gave Some, Some gave All" - the Illinois American Legion will be remembering the veterans who did return.

According to Mark Sides, public relations chairman for the American Legion of Illinois, "The American Legion honors our nation's heroes and all veterans in many ways. We working to educate people in Illinois about the activities we sponsor and what we do to help and assist veterans and their families."

Sides' experience suggests that most people are not aware that the American Legion is the organization which drafted the original GI Bill, or that it started what is now called the Veterans' Administration.

The Illinois American Legion has issued an invitation to all veterans and citizens of Illinois to visit the Convention Center at 700 East Adams Street in Springfield, Illinois, between July 8 and 13, 2008, to learn about what the organization's 2.7 million members are doing. Since 1919, the American Legion has maintained a proud tradition of service to veterans and their families, and believes Sides, "This weeklong event is a great chance to see how this country, the State of Illinois, and the American Legion truly honor our nation's bravest."

MEDIA: Of special note during the week is the Illinois American Legion "FREEDOM FEST" celebration on July 11. Beginning at 6:00 p.m. and running through midnight, the City of Springfield is blocking the streets between the Hilton and the President Abe Lincoln Hotels located on Adams Street to accommodate this momentous Veterans' event. Music will be provided by Rolling Stones cover band, "Jack Flash." Admission is free in honor of all who have served. For more information, contact Mark Sides at 309-721-3886 or by e-mail at Mark@MarkSides.com.

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CONTACT:
Mark Sides
American Legion
Department of Illinois
Headquarters PO Box 2910
Bloomington, IL 61701
PHONE. 309-721-3886
FAX. 309-663-5783
EMAIL: Mark@MarkSides.com
http://www.JointheLegion.org

SOURCE: American Legion Department of Illinois

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