This year on November 11, we honor our brave servicemen and women who are courageous enough to fight for the freedoms we enjoy every day. Although we should be thanking our veterans on a daily basis, Veteran’s Day gives every American citizen an opportunity say thank you to those who serve in the armed forces for putting their lives on the line and protecting our country.

With all of the troops scheduled to come back from Iraq by the end of the year, now more than ever we must ensure that they are taken care of and work to make their transition into civilian life as smooth as possible. With all of the troops coming home, jobs will need to be created to help support them and their families. This month is also known as "Hire a Veteran Month" throughout Illinois and I will continue my efforts in the State Senate to ensure veterans have good-paying jobs here in Southern Illinois when they return. One of the measures I helped pass during this past spring session include a bill (Senate Bill 1270; Public Act 97-0260) that creates the annual goal of 3% to set-aside State contracts for awarding to veteran-owned small businesses. I also helped pass legislation (House Bill 1260; Public Act 97-0077) that prohibits electric or gas public utilities from disconnecting service during winter months due to non-payment for residential customers who are veterans when gas or electricity is their primary heating source. These bills are important to ensuring veterans have a job and place to call home when they return from serving our country overseas.

A number of job fairs are also being set up this month across the state to provide veterans with opportunities to find work more easily. These job fairs, hosted by the Illinois Department of Employment Security, are geared specifically towards veterans and emphasize services and opportunities particularly important to them. The events explain tax credits available for employers and businesses looking to hire new workers, and particularly veterans. Our military service men and women have fought overseas for us

– defending our freedom – and they should not have to fight for a job once they return home too. For more information about these job fairs, please go to my website at www.SenatorForby.com and click on the tab named "Job Fair Information."

Again, I want to thank all Illinois veterans for their service. If it wasn’t for them, the people in our district wouldn’t be living the lifestyles we enjoy every day. Please take time this Veteran’s Day to thank these loyal men and women who have fought for our freedom and continue to protect it. It is because of them that our nation is so great and our liberties are maintained.