<P style="MARGIN: 0in 0in 0pt" class=MsoNormal><FONT size=2><B style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal"><SPAN style="FONT-FAMILY: 'Arial','sans-serif'">U.S. Army photo by Staff Sgt. Stephanie McCurry, Illinois National Guard Public Affairs/</SPAN></B><SPAN style="FONT-FAMILY: 'Arial','sans-serif'"> (Left) Chief Warrant Officer (2) Norman Brooks of Clinton, with Detachment 1, Company B, (Military Intelligence), 33rd Brigade Support Troop Battalion based in Peoria, listens as Maj. Gen. Dennis Celletti of Springfield, the Assistant Adjutant General- Army of the Illinois National Guard explains to Mark Kirk, U.S. Senator for Illinois some of the challenges the Peoria facility is facing with the out of date facility.<SPAN style="mso-spacerun: yes">&nbsp; </SPAN>Kirk went on a private tour of the Illinois Army National Guard’s Peoria facility March 26.</SPAN></FONT></P>

U.S. Army photo by Staff Sgt. Stephanie McCurry, Illinois National Guard Public Affairs/ (Left) Chief Warrant Officer (2) Norman Brooks of Clinton, with Detachment 1, Company B, (Military Intelligence), 33rd Brigade Support Troop Battalion based in Peoria, listens as Maj. Gen. Dennis Celletti of Springfield, the Assistant Adjutant General- Army of the Illinois National Guard explains to Mark Kirk, U.S. Senator for Illinois some of the challenges the Peoria facility is facing with the out of date facility.  Kirk went on a private tour of the Illinois Army National Guard’s Peoria facility March 26.


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<P style="TEXT-ALIGN: center; MARGIN: 0in 0in 0pt" class=MsoNormal align=center><I style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal"><SPAN style="FONT-FAMILY: 'Arial','sans-serif'"><FONT size=2>Mobilization ceremony Feb. 12 in Galesburg<?xml:namespace prefix = o ns = "urn:schemas-microsoft-com:office:office" /><o:p></o:p></FONT></SPAN></I></P> <P style="MARGIN: 0in 0in 0pt" class=MsoNormal><SPAN style="FONT-SIZE: 12pt"><o:p>&nbsp;</o:p></SPAN></P> <P style="LINE-HEIGHT: 200%; TEXT-INDENT: 0.5in; MARGIN: 0in 0in 0pt" class=MsoPlainText><B style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal"><SPAN style="LINE-HEIGHT: 200%; FONT-FAMILY: 'Arial','sans-serif'; FONT-SIZE: 11pt">GALESBURG</SPAN></B><SPAN style="LINE-HEIGHT: 200%; FONT-FAMILY: 'Arial','sans-serif'; FONT-SIZE: 11pt"> – A deployment ceremony is scheduled for approximately 120<SPAN style="COLOR: red"> </SPAN>Soldiers who are scheduled to deploy to Kuwait this winter.<SPAN style="mso-spacerun: yes">&nbsp; </SPAN>The ceremony for the 444th Chemical Company will be<SPAN style="mso-spacerun: yes">&nbsp; </SPAN>Feb. 12 at 1 p.m. at the Galesburg National Guard Armory, 362 N. Linwood Road in Galesburg.<o:p></o:p></SPAN></P> <P style="LINE-HEIGHT: 200%; TEXT-INDENT: 0.5in; MARGIN: 0in 0in 0pt" class=MsoNormal><SPAN style="LINE-HEIGHT: 200%; FONT-FAMILY: 'Arial','sans-serif'; FONT-SIZE: 11pt">The Soldiers will train for a brief time at Camp Shelby, Miss. before deploying for approximately nine months in support of Operation Enduring Freedom.<o:p></o:p></SPAN></P> <P style="LINE-HEIGHT: 200%; TEXT-INDENT: 0.5in; MARGIN: 0in 0in 0pt" class=MsoNormal><SPAN style="LINE-HEIGHT: 200%; FONT-FAMILY: 'Arial','sans-serif'; FONT-SIZE: 11pt">Soldiers with the 444th Chemical Company will provide base security and command cell operations.<SPAN style="mso-spacerun: yes">&nbsp; </SPAN>The unit will provide support for other units stationed in the area and provide sustainment and command for a Michigan-based military police task force in northern Kuwait.<SPAN style="mso-spacerun: yes">&nbsp; </SPAN><o:p></o:p></SPAN></P> <P style="LINE-HEIGHT: 200%; TEXT-INDENT: 0.5in; MARGIN: 0in 0in 0pt" class=MsoNormal><SPAN style="LINE-HEIGHT: 200%; FONT-FAMILY: 'Arial','sans-serif'; FONT-SIZE: 11pt">The unit will be mobilized for approximately one year, returning home in early 2013.<o:p></o:p></SPAN></P> <P style="LINE-HEIGHT: 200%; TEXT-INDENT: 0.5in; MARGIN: 0in 0in 0pt" class=MsoNormal><SPAN style="LINE-HEIGHT: 200%; FONT-FAMILY: 'Arial','sans-serif'; FONT-SIZE: 11pt">For more information, contact the Public Affairs office at <A href="mailto:ngilstaffpao@ng.army.mil"><FONT color=#0000ff>ngilstaffpao@ng.army.mil</FONT></A> or call 217-761-3569.<o:p></o:p></SPAN></P> <P style="TEXT-ALIGN: center; MARGIN: 5pt 0in; mso-layout-grid-align: none" class=MsoNormal align=center><B><SPAN style="FONT-FAMILY: 'Comic Sans MS'; COLOR: black; mso-bidi-font-family: 'Comic Sans MS'; mso-no-proof: yes"><FONT size=2>Become our Facebook Fan!</FONT></SPAN></B><SPAN style="FONT-SIZE: 12pt; mso-no-proof: yes"> <BR></SPAN><SPAN style="FONT-FAMILY: 'Comic Sans MS'; COLOR: blue; mso-bidi-font-family: 'Comic Sans MS'; mso-no-proof: yes"><A href="file:///C:/Users/glenn.chrisman/AppData/Local/Users/michael.loren.wood/AppData/Local/Microsoft/Windows/Temporary%20Internet%20Files/2010/Drafts/www.facebook.com/illinoisnationalguard"><FONT color=#0000ff size=2>www.facebook.com/illinoisnationalguard</FONT></A></SPAN><SPAN style="FONT-SIZE: 12pt; mso-no-proof: yes"><o:p></o:p></SPAN></P> <P style="LINE-HEIGHT: 200%; TEXT-INDENT: 0.5in; MARGIN: 0in 0in 0pt" class=MsoNormal><SPAN style="FONT-FAMILY: 'Arial','sans-serif'"><o:p><FONT size=2>&nbsp;</FONT></o:p></SPAN></P> <P style="TEXT-ALIGN: center; LINE-HEIGHT: 200%; MARGIN: 0in 0in 0pt" class=MsoNormal align=center><SPAN style="FONT-FAMILY: 'Arial','sans-serif'"><FONT size=2>-30-<o:p></o:p></FONT></SPAN></P> Galesburg Army National Guard Unit Mobilizes For Mission In Kuwait
GALESBURG– A deployment ceremony is scheduled for approximately 120 Soldiers who are scheduled to deploy to Kuwait this winter.The ceremony for the 444th Chemical Company will be Feb. 12 at 1 p.m. at the Galesburg National Guard Armory, 362 N. Linwood Road in Galesburg.

 
<P style="MARGIN: 0in 0in 0pt" class=MsoNormal><I style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal"><SPAN style="FONT-FAMILY: 'Arial','sans-serif'"><FONT size=2>Story by Spc. Dan LoGrasso, Spc. Dorian Daily, Sgt. Robert Adams, 139th Mobile Public Affairs Detachment<?xml:namespace prefix = o ns = "urn:schemas-microsoft-com:office:office" /><o:p></o:p></FONT></SPAN></I></P> <P style="MARGIN: 0in 0in 0pt" class=MsoNormal><SPAN style="FONT-FAMILY: 'Arial','sans-serif'"><o:p><FONT size=2>&nbsp;</FONT></o:p></SPAN></P> <P style="LINE-HEIGHT: 200%; TEXT-INDENT: 0.5in; MARGIN: 0in 0in 0pt" class=MsoNormal><FONT size=2><B style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal"><SPAN style="FONT-FAMILY: 'Arial','sans-serif'">SPARTA -- </SPAN></B><SPAN style="FONT-FAMILY: 'Arial','sans-serif'">What may look like normal semi-truck trailers are actually a portal into modern warfare giving Illinois Army National Guard Soldiers a chance to experience overseas before leaving the Midwest.<o:p></o:p></SPAN></FONT></P> <P style="LINE-HEIGHT: 200%; TEXT-INDENT: 0.5in; MARGIN: 0in 0in 0pt" class=MsoNormal><SPAN style="FONT-FAMILY: 'Arial','sans-serif'"><FONT size=2>“Come to Sparta in the morning and we can take you to Iraq for lunch, Afghanistan for dinner, and have you home by bedtime,” said Sgt. Edward Singletary of Sparta, range scheduling non commissioned officer at Sparta Training Area.<o:p></o:p></FONT></SPAN></P> <P style="LINE-HEIGHT: 200%; TEXT-INDENT: 0.5in; MARGIN: 0in 0in 0pt" class=MsoNormal><SPAN style="FONT-FAMILY: 'Arial','sans-serif'"><FONT size=2>Singletary guided Soldiers from Company F, 634th Brigade Support Battalion (BSB) in Mt. Vernon, through a new state-of-the-art training system Feb. 4.<SPAN style="mso-spacerun: yes">&nbsp; </SPAN>The Virtual Vehicle Trainer (VVT) is a combat simulator capable of putting over 25 Soldiers into the same massive virtual environment. Soldiers break into teams of three and man their “vehicles,” – nearly identical mock-ups of a humvee interior, complete with gunner’s turret – and don headsets or look into high-resolution screens to see past the trailer and into the digital world beyond. <o:p></o:p></FONT></SPAN></P> <P style="LINE-HEIGHT: 200%; TEXT-INDENT: 0.5in; MARGIN: 0in 0in 0pt" class=MsoNormal><SPAN style="FONT-FAMILY: 'Arial','sans-serif'"><FONT size=2>Spc. Leo Stofferahn of Pekin with Company F, 634th BSB, a veteran of three deployments, said the simulator’s terrain and movement were accurate and effective. <o:p></o:p></FONT></SPAN></P> <P style="LINE-HEIGHT: 200%; TEXT-INDENT: 0.5in; MARGIN: 0in 0in 0pt" class=MsoNormal><SPAN style="FONT-FAMILY: 'Arial','sans-serif'"><FONT size=2>“The training was a good refresher for veterans and good for setting up accurate deployment expectations for new Soldiers,” said Stofferahn.<o:p></o:p></FONT></SPAN></P> <P style="LINE-HEIGHT: 200%; TEXT-INDENT: 0.5in; MARGIN: 0in 0in 0pt" class=MsoNormal><SPAN style="FONT-FAMILY: 'Arial','sans-serif'"><FONT size=2>Singletary controls the $3.2 million VVT, which is the most-advanced system of its kind available, from a multi-screen command station. With the push of a button, he can change the weather, the terrain (which is based on actual satellite mapping), or zoom into any part of the 3D environment. No longer are Soldiers represented by blinking dots; every image interacts in real time. The digital representation of the gunner even swivels along with the Soldier in the turret. <o:p></o:p></FONT></SPAN></P> <P style="LINE-HEIGHT: 200%; TEXT-INDENT: 0.5in; MARGIN: 0in 0in 0pt" class=MsoNormal><SPAN style="FONT-FAMILY: 'Arial','sans-serif'"><FONT size=2>The software is also very flexible. While it can run preset scenarios, Singletary has the somewhat God-like ability to drop in many kinds of enemies, obstacles, helicopters or other interactive set pieces at any time. </FONT></SPAN><SPAN style="FONT-FAMILY: 'Arial','sans-serif'"><FONT size=2>The VVT also has a huge catalog of vehicles that it can run; almost every model of humvee, most models of the <o:p></o:p></FONT></SPAN></P> <P style="LINE-HEIGHT: 200%; MARGIN: 0in 0in 0pt" class=MsoNormal><SPAN style="FONT-FAMILY: 'Arial','sans-serif'"><FONT size=2>Mine-Resistant Ambush Protected vehicle, unmanned drones, and even a remote-controlled reconnaissance robot, the Talon, are available. <o:p></o:p></FONT></SPAN></P> <P style="LINE-HEIGHT: 200%; TEXT-INDENT: 0.5in; MARGIN: 0in 0in 0pt" class=MsoNormal><SPAN style="FONT-FAMILY: 'Arial','sans-serif'"><FONT size=2>Singletary said he believes this ability to customize is one of the biggest strengths of the VVT. <o:p></o:p></FONT></SPAN></P> <P style="LINE-HEIGHT: 200%; TEXT-INDENT: 0.5in; MARGIN: 0in 0in 0pt" class=MsoNormal><SPAN style="FONT-FAMILY: 'Arial','sans-serif'"><FONT size=2>“This is the latest, greatest, most up-to-date system that we can train in,” said Singletary. “We can put you into a theater-specific environment.<o:p></o:p></FONT></SPAN></P> <P style="LINE-HEIGHT: 200%; TEXT-INDENT: 0.5in; MARGIN: 0in 0in 0pt" class=MsoNormal><SPAN style="FONT-FAMILY: 'Arial','sans-serif'"><FONT size=2>The control trailer also has benches and a projector, allowing units to conduct an immediate after-action review. Soldiers can watch the playback of the scenario on-screen and even hear their recorded radio traffic, allowing them to see what they did well and what needs improvement. <o:p></o:p></FONT></SPAN></P> <P style="LINE-HEIGHT: 200%; TEXT-INDENT: 0.5in; MARGIN: 0in 0in 0pt" class=MsoNormal><SPAN style="FONT-FAMILY: 'Arial','sans-serif'"><FONT size=2>Sgt. 1st Class Greg Anselment of Wayne City, a platoon sergeant with Company F, 634th BSB said the real-time cooperation required by the VVT scenarios was great for exposing shortfalls in teamwork for future training. He also said it would be difficult to get this training without the VVT. <o:p></o:p></FONT></SPAN></P> <P style="LINE-HEIGHT: 200%; TEXT-INDENT: 0.5in; MARGIN: 0in 0in 0pt" class=MsoNormal><SPAN style="FONT-FAMILY: 'Arial','sans-serif'"><FONT size=2>“(Individual units) don’t have to have the resources,” said Anselment. “We don’t have up-armored vehicles, but we can still come down (to Sparta) and train.” <o:p></o:p></FONT></SPAN></P> <P style="LINE-HEIGHT: 200%; TEXT-INDENT: 0.5in; MARGIN: 0in 0in 0pt" class=MsoNormal><SPAN style="FONT-FAMILY: 'Arial','sans-serif'"><FONT size=2>In addition to the Virtual Vehicle Trainer, Sparta has virtual marksmanship training for rifles, machine guns and mortars, paintball gear for live maneuvers, and roughly 2,300 acres of open land available for field training exercises. Units interested in learning more about these training opportunities or the Virtual Vehicle Trainer may contact Sgt. Ed Singletary by phone at (217) 761-6813 or by email at </FONT><A href="mailto:edward.j.singletary@us.army.mil"><FONT color=#0000ff size=2>edward.j.singletary@us.army.mil</FONT></A><A name=_GoBack></A><o:p></o:p></SPAN></P> Sparta Training Area Prepares Soldiers For Overseas
SPARTA -What may look like normal semi-truck trailers are actually a portal into modern warfare giving Illinois Army National Guard Soldiers a chance to experience overseas before leaving the Midwest. Come to Sparta in the morning and we can take you to Iraq for lunch, Afghanistan for dinner, and have you home by bedtime,” said Sgt. Edward Singletary of Sparta, range scheduling non commissioned officer at Sparta Training Area.

 
<P style="MARGIN: 0in 0in 0pt" class=MsoNormal><I style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal"><SPAN style="FONT-FAMILY: 'Arial','sans-serif'; FONT-SIZE: 11pt">Story by Sgt. James Sims, 139th Mobile Public Affairs Detachment<?xml:namespace prefix = o ns = "urn:schemas-microsoft-com:office:office" /><o:p></o:p></SPAN></I></P> <P style="TEXT-INDENT: 0.5in; MARGIN: 0in 0in 0pt" class=MsoNormal><I style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal"><SPAN style="FONT-FAMILY: 'Arial','sans-serif'"><o:p><FONT size=2>&nbsp;</FONT></o:p></SPAN></I></P> <P style="LINE-HEIGHT: 200%; TEXT-INDENT: 0.5in; MARGIN: 0in 0in 0pt" class=MsoNormal><FONT size=2><B style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal"><SPAN style="FONT-FAMILY: 'Arial','sans-serif'">SPRINGFIELD</SPAN></B><SPAN style="FONT-FAMILY: 'Arial','sans-serif'"> – As servicemembers start to receive their W2’s in the mail, now is the time to prepare to file your 2011 tax returns and learn what opportunities are available for military members.<SPAN style="mso-spacerun: yes">&nbsp; </SPAN><o:p></o:p></SPAN></FONT></P> <P style="LINE-HEIGHT: 200%; TEXT-INDENT: 0.5in; MARGIN: 0in 0in 0pt" class=MsoNormal><SPAN style="FONT-FAMILY: 'Arial','sans-serif'"><FONT size=2>"There are many programs at the state and federal levels providing tax credits for members of our military in recognition of their sacrifices for the nation,” said Lt. Col. Tammy Duckworth of Hoffman Estates, Deputy of Human Resources for the Illinois Army National Guard.&nbsp; “It is important that our troops are aware of these benefits and not leave any money on the table when those dollars can be helpful to our families and employers.”<o:p></o:p></FONT></SPAN></P> <P style="LINE-HEIGHT: 200%; TEXT-INDENT: 0.5in; MARGIN: 0in 0in 0pt" class=MsoNormal><SPAN style="FONT-FAMILY: 'Arial','sans-serif'"><FONT size=2>If a servicemember is eligible under the Military OneSource program, he/she can complete, save and file their 2011 federal taxes and up to three state tax returns online for free with the H&amp;R Block At Home® tool.&nbsp; To access this free service, use the Military OneSource H&amp;R Block At Home® link. &nbsp;The first step is to log in to Military OneSource (new users will need to create a Military OneSource account).&nbsp; From there, users will be directed to a page with additional information on tax preparation, including a link to the Military OneSource H&amp;R Block At Home® service.<o:p></o:p></FONT></SPAN></P> <P style="LINE-HEIGHT: 200%; TEXT-INDENT: 0.5in; MARGIN: 0in 0in 0pt" class=MsoNormal><SPAN style="FONT-FAMILY: 'Arial','sans-serif'"><FONT size=2>In addition to filing taxes for free, servicemembers can get support from trained tax consultants through Military OneSource. Servicemembers and families can call 1-800-342-9647 and ask to speak with a Military OneSource tax consultant seven days a week from 7 a.m. to 11 p.m.<o:p></o:p></FONT></SPAN></P> <P style="LINE-HEIGHT: 200%; TEXT-INDENT: 0.5in; MARGIN: 0in 0in 0pt" class=MsoNormal><SPAN style="FONT-FAMILY: 'Arial','sans-serif'"><FONT size=2>Federal tax benefits for hiring many veterans are available to business owners in any state.<SPAN style="mso-spacerun: yes">&nbsp; </SPAN>The federal benefits are available under the Work Opportunity Tax Credit (WOTC) Program.<SPAN style="mso-spacerun: yes">&nbsp; </SPAN>There is up to a $2,400 credit if there is:<o:p></o:p></FONT></SPAN></P> <P style="LINE-HEIGHT: 200%; TEXT-INDENT: -0.25in; MARGIN: 0in 0in 0pt 1in; mso-list: l0 level1 lfo1" class=MsoNormal><SPAN style="FONT-FAMILY: Symbol; mso-fareast-font-family: Symbol; mso-bidi-font-family: Symbol"><SPAN style="mso-list: Ignore"><FONT size=2>·</FONT><SPAN style="FONT: 7pt 'Times New Roman'">&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; </SPAN></SPAN></SPAN><SPAN style="FONT-FAMILY: 'Arial','sans-serif'"><FONT size=2>a veteran who is a member of a family that has received food stamps for at least three consecutive months in the 15 months prior to the date of hire<o:p></o:p></FONT></SPAN></P> <P style="LINE-HEIGHT: 200%; TEXT-INDENT: -0.25in; MARGIN: 0in 0in 0pt 1in; mso-list: l0 level1 lfo1" class=MsoNormal><SPAN style="FONT-FAMILY: Symbol; mso-fareast-font-family: Symbol; mso-bidi-font-family: Symbol"><SPAN style="mso-list: Ignore"><FONT size=2>·</FONT><SPAN style="FONT: 7pt 'Times New Roman'">&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; </SPAN></SPAN></SPAN><SPAN style="FONT-FAMILY: 'Arial','sans-serif'"><FONT size=2>a person with disability who is participating in a vocational rehabilitation program through U.S. Veteran’s Administration<o:p></o:p></FONT></SPAN></P> <P style="LINE-HEIGHT: 200%; MARGIN: 0in 0in 0pt 1in" class=MsoNormal><SPAN style="FONT-FAMILY: 'Arial','sans-serif'"><o:p><FONT size=2>&nbsp;</FONT></o:p></SPAN></P> <P style="LINE-HEIGHT: 200%; TEXT-INDENT: 0.5in; MARGIN: 0in 0in 0pt" class=MsoNormal><SPAN style="FONT-FAMILY: 'Arial','sans-serif'"><FONT size=2>There is also a WOTC credit of up to $4,800 for veterans entitled to compensation for a service-connected disability who:<o:p></o:p></FONT></SPAN></P> <P style="LINE-HEIGHT: 200%; TEXT-INDENT: -0.25in; MARGIN: 0in 0in 0pt 1in; mso-list: l1 level1 lfo2" class=MsoNormal><SPAN style="FONT-FAMILY: Symbol; mso-fareast-font-family: Symbol; mso-bidi-font-family: Symbol"><SPAN style="mso-list: Ignore"><FONT size=2>·</FONT><SPAN style="FONT: 7pt 'Times New Roman'">&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; </SPAN></SPAN></SPAN><SPAN style="FONT-FAMILY: 'Arial','sans-serif'"><FONT size=2>were hired within one year of having been discharged, or released from activity duty<SPAN style="mso-spacerun: yes">&nbsp;&nbsp; </SPAN><o:p></o:p></FONT></SPAN></P> <P style="LINE-HEIGHT: 200%; TEXT-INDENT: -0.25in; MARGIN: 0in 0in 0pt 1in; mso-list: l1 level1 lfo2" class=MsoNormal><SPAN style="FONT-FAMILY: Symbol; mso-fareast-font-family: Symbol; mso-bidi-font-family: Symbol"><SPAN style="mso-list: Ignore"><FONT size=2>·</FONT><SPAN style="FONT: 7pt 'Times New Roman'">&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; </SPAN></SPAN></SPAN><SPAN style="FONT-FAMILY: 'Arial','sans-serif'"><FONT size=2>has been unemployed for any six of the last 12 months<o:p></o:p></FONT></SPAN></P> <P style="LINE-HEIGHT: 200%; MARGIN: 0in 0in 0pt 1in" class=MsoNormal><SPAN style="FONT-FAMILY: 'Arial','sans-serif'"><o:p><FONT size=2>&nbsp;</FONT></o:p></SPAN></P> <P style="LINE-HEIGHT: 200%; TEXT-INDENT: 0.5in; MARGIN: 0in 0in 0pt" class=MsoNormal><SPAN style="FONT-FAMILY: 'Arial','sans-serif'"><FONT size=2>Employers hiring multiple WOTC qualified employees can make a significant dent in their federal income taxes.<SPAN style="mso-spacerun: yes">&nbsp; </SPAN>These benefits are explained and claimed on IRS Form 5884.<o:p></o:p></FONT></SPAN></P> <P style="LINE-HEIGHT: 200%; TEXT-INDENT: 0.5in; MARGIN: 0in 0in 0pt" class=MsoNormal><SPAN style="FONT-FAMILY: 'Arial','sans-serif'"><FONT size=2>Currently, 26 states offer partial or total exclusions, from state-level taxes for combat and/or other military compensation paid to servicemembers.&nbsp; There are five states offering outright tax exemption for military pay, including Illinois. <o:p></o:p></FONT></SPAN></P> <P style="LINE-HEIGHT: 200%; TEXT-INDENT: 0.5in; MARGIN: 0in 0in 0pt" class=MsoNormal><SPAN style="FONT-FAMILY: 'Arial','sans-serif'"><FONT size=2>Combat pay received by members of the military serving in Afghanistan, Iraq and other combat zone localities is usually exempt from tax. But under a special rule, servicemembers can choose to count all of this income when he/she figures the Earned Income Tax Credit. In many cases, making this choice will enable the servicemember to claim the credit, or if you are already eligible, claim a larger credit.<o:p></o:p></FONT></SPAN></P> <P style="TEXT-ALIGN: center; MARGIN: 5pt 0in; mso-layout-grid-align: none" class=MsoNormal align=center><B><SPAN style="FONT-FAMILY: 'Comic Sans MS'; COLOR: black; mso-bidi-font-family: 'Comic Sans MS'; mso-no-proof: yes"><FONT size=2>Become our Facebook Fan!</FONT></SPAN></B><SPAN style="FONT-SIZE: 12pt; mso-no-proof: yes"> <BR></SPAN><SPAN style="FONT-FAMILY: 'Comic Sans MS'; COLOR: blue; mso-bidi-font-family: 'Comic Sans MS'; mso-no-proof: yes"><A href="file:///C:/Users/glenn.chrisman/Desktop/www.facebook.com/illinoisnationalguard"><FONT color=#0000ff size=2>www.facebook.com/illinoisnationalguard</FONT></A></SPAN><SPAN style="FONT-SIZE: 12pt; mso-no-proof: yes"><o:p></o:p></SPAN></P> <P style="TEXT-ALIGN: center; MARGIN: 0in 0in 0pt" class=MsoNormal align=center><SPAN style="FONT-FAMILY: 'Arial','sans-serif'"><FONT size=2>-30-<o:p></o:p></FONT></SPAN></P> Tax Credits And Breaks Available For Illinois Guardsmen And Employers
SPRINGFIELD- As servicemembers start to receive their W2’s in the mail, now is the time to prepare to file your 2011 tax returns and learn what opportunities are available for military members. "There are many programs at the state and federal levels providing tax credits for members of our military in recognition of their sacrifices for the nation,” said Lt. Col. Tammy Duckworth of Hoffman Estates, Deputy of Human Resources for the Illinois Army National Guard.  “It is important that our troops are aware of these benefits and not leave any money on the table when those dollars can be helpful to our families and employers.”

 
<P style="MARGIN: 0in 0in 0pt; tab-stops: 447.9pt" class=MsoNormal><I style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal"><SPAN style="FONT-FAMILY: 'Arial','sans-serif'; FONT-SIZE: 11pt">By: Maj. Jennifer C. Howsare, 126th Air Refueling Wing Public Affairs Officer<SPAN style="mso-tab-count: 1">&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; </SPAN><?xml:namespace prefix = o ns = "urn:schemas-microsoft-com:office:office" /><o:p></o:p></SPAN></I></P> <P style="MARGIN: 0in 0in 0pt" class=MsoNormal><SPAN style="FONT-FAMILY: 'Arial','sans-serif'; FONT-SIZE: 11pt"><o:p>&nbsp;</o:p></SPAN></P> <P style="LINE-HEIGHT: 200%; MARGIN: 0in 0in 0pt" class=MsoNormal><SPAN style="LINE-HEIGHT: 200%; FONT-FAMILY: 'Arial','sans-serif'; FONT-SIZE: 11pt"><SPAN style="mso-spacerun: yes">&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; </SPAN>SCOTT AIR FORCE BASE, Ill. - The 126th Security Forces Squadron (SFS) at Scott Air Force Base was awarded the Air Force Outstanding Unit Award for exceptionally meritorious service from Aug. 1, 2009 through Sept. 30, 2011.<o:p></o:p></SPAN></P> <P style="LINE-HEIGHT: 200%; MARGIN: 0in 0in 0pt" class=MsoNormal><SPAN style="LINE-HEIGHT: 200%; FONT-FAMILY: 'Arial','sans-serif'; FONT-SIZE: 11pt"><SPAN style="mso-spacerun: yes">&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; </SPAN>During this period, the 126 SFS provided global coverage to continue the war fighting effort.<SPAN style="mso-spacerun: yes">&nbsp; </SPAN>Through numerous deployments and home-station efforts, the squadron embodied the Total Force concept.<SPAN style="mso-spacerun: yes">&nbsp; </SPAN><o:p></o:p></SPAN></P> <P style="LINE-HEIGHT: 200%; MARGIN: 0in 0in 0pt" class=MsoNormal><SPAN style="LINE-HEIGHT: 200%; FONT-FAMILY: 'Arial','sans-serif'; FONT-SIZE: 11pt"><SPAN style="mso-spacerun: yes">&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; </SPAN>“Our Security Forces Squadron continues to perform in an outstanding fashion,” said Col. Rick Nyalka, of Marine, 126th Mission Support Group Commander.<SPAN style="mso-spacerun: yes">&nbsp; </SPAN>“Whether it is at Scott Air Force Base or while deployed, they always perform at the highest levels.<SPAN style="mso-spacerun: yes">&nbsp; </SPAN>I am very proud of our Security Forces members.<SPAN style="mso-spacerun: yes">&nbsp; </SPAN>They have demonstrated that they are truly deserving of this prestigious award!”<SPAN style="mso-spacerun: yes">&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; </SPAN><o:p></o:p></SPAN></P> <P style="LINE-HEIGHT: 200%; MARGIN: 0in 0in 0pt" class=MsoNormal><SPAN style="LINE-HEIGHT: 200%; FONT-FAMILY: 'Arial','sans-serif'; FONT-SIZE: 11pt"><SPAN style="mso-spacerun: yes">&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; </SPAN>Members also served as true citizen-Airmen by volunteering countless hours in both local and deployed communities.<SPAN style="mso-spacerun: yes">&nbsp; </SPAN>In addition, squadron members were recognized with awards for home-station and deployment excellence.<o:p></o:p></SPAN></P> <P style="LINE-HEIGHT: 200%; MARGIN: 0in 0in 0pt" class=MsoNormal><SPAN style="LINE-HEIGHT: 200%; FONT-FAMILY: 'Arial','sans-serif'; FONT-SIZE: 11pt"><SPAN style="mso-spacerun: yes">&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; </SPAN>“I could not be more proud of the men and women of the 126th Security Forces Squadron,” said Lt. Col. John Bryk, of Mokena, 126th Security Forces Squadron Commander.<SPAN style="mso-spacerun: yes">&nbsp; </SPAN>“This is the finest group of non-commissioned officers and Airmen that I have had the opportunity to serve with during my 28-year career in the Air National Guard.<SPAN style="mso-spacerun: yes">&nbsp; </SPAN>The dedication and commitment they display on a daily basis is amazing.”<SPAN style="mso-spacerun: yes">&nbsp; </SPAN><o:p></o:p></SPAN></P> <P style="LINE-HEIGHT: 200%; MARGIN: 0in 0in 0pt" class=MsoNormal><SPAN style="LINE-HEIGHT: 200%; FONT-FAMILY: 'Arial','sans-serif'; COLOR: red; FONT-SIZE: 11pt"><SPAN style="mso-spacerun: yes">&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; </SPAN></SPAN><SPAN style="LINE-HEIGHT: 200%; FONT-FAMILY: 'Arial','sans-serif'; FONT-SIZE: 11pt">In addition to deployments and community support, the squadron was recognized during each of its most recent compliance and readiness inspections.<SPAN style="mso-spacerun: yes">&nbsp; </SPAN>The squadron received an excellent rating with zero findings during the Aug. 2009 Air Mobility Command Unit Compliance Inspection.<SPAN style="mso-spacerun: yes">&nbsp; </SPAN>Additionally, the squadron was most recently rated outstanding for providing flawless security during a June 2011 Nuclear Operational Readiness Inspection.<SPAN style="mso-spacerun: yes">&nbsp; </SPAN><o:p></o:p></SPAN></P> <P style="LINE-HEIGHT: 200%; MARGIN: 0in 0in 0pt" class=MsoNormal><SPAN style="LINE-HEIGHT: 200%; FONT-FAMILY: 'Arial','sans-serif'; COLOR: red; FONT-SIZE: 11pt"><SPAN style="mso-spacerun: yes">&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; </SPAN></SPAN><SPAN style="LINE-HEIGHT: 200%; FONT-FAMILY: 'Arial','sans-serif'; FONT-SIZE: 11pt">The Air Force Outstanding Unit Award was authorized by Department of the Air Force General Order 1, Jan. 6, 1954.<SPAN style="mso-spacerun: yes">&nbsp; </SPAN>It is awarded by the Secretary of the Air Force to units which are distinguished by exceptionally meritorious service or outstanding achievement that clearly sets the unit above and apart from similar units. <SPAN style="COLOR: red"><o:p></o:p></SPAN></SPAN></P> <P style="LINE-HEIGHT: 200%; MARGIN: 0in 0in 0pt; BACKGROUND: white" class=MsoNormal><SPAN style="LINE-HEIGHT: 200%; FONT-FAMILY: 'Arial','sans-serif'; FONT-SIZE: 11pt"><SPAN style="mso-spacerun: yes">&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; </SPAN>The services include: performance of exceptionally meritorious service, accomplishment of a specific outstanding achievement of national or international significance, combat operations against an armed enemy of the United States, or military operations involving conflict with or exposure to hostile actions by an opposing foreign force.<SPAN style="mso-spacerun: yes">&nbsp; </SPAN><o:p></o:p></SPAN></P> 126th Security Forces Squadron Wins Air Force Outstanding Unit Award

 
<P style="TEXT-ALIGN: center; MARGIN: 0in 0in 0pt" class=MsoNormal align=center><FONT size=2><B style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal"><I style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal"><SPAN style="FONT-FAMILY: 'Arial','sans-serif'"><SPAN style="mso-spacerun: yes">&nbsp;</SPAN></SPAN></I></B><I style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal"><SPAN style="FONT-FAMILY: 'Arial','sans-serif'">Feb. 4 ceremony planned at Camp Lincoln in Springfield for unit recently returned from Afghanistan<?xml:namespace prefix = o ns = "urn:schemas-microsoft-com:office:office" /><o:p></o:p></SPAN></I></FONT></P> <P style="MARGIN: 0in 0in 0pt" class=MsoNormal><o:p><FONT size=2>&nbsp;</FONT></o:p></P> <P style="LINE-HEIGHT: 200%; TEXT-INDENT: 0.5in; MARGIN: 0in 0in 0pt" class=MsoNormal><FONT size=2><B style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal"><SPAN style="FONT-FAMILY: 'Arial','sans-serif'">SPRINGFIELD</SPAN></B><SPAN style="FONT-FAMILY: 'Arial','sans-serif'"> – Approximately 20 Illinois Army National Guard Soldiers will be recognized Feb. 4 by the National Guard Bureau Freedom Salute Campaign for their sacrifice and service in support of Operation Enduring Freedom.<SPAN style="mso-spacerun: yes">&nbsp; </SPAN>The ceremony will be at the Illinois Military Academy at Camp Lincoln in Springfield at 10 a.m.<o:p></o:p></SPAN></FONT></P> <P style="LINE-HEIGHT: 200%; TEXT-INDENT: 0.5in; MARGIN: 0in 0in 0pt" class=MsoNormal><SPAN style="FONT-FAMILY: 'Arial','sans-serif'"><FONT size=2>Soldiers of BEST (Bilateral Embedded Staff Team) A7 returned in October after being mobilized in January 2011 in support of Operation Enduring Freedom.<SPAN style="mso-spacerun: yes">&nbsp; </SPAN>They joined the Polish Land Forces before arriving in Afghanistan and worked as a joint unit during the course of the mobilization.<SPAN style="mso-spacerun: yes">&nbsp; </SPAN>The Soldiers are from various parts of Illinois and were selected for the mission based on their training and skills.<SPAN style="mso-spacerun: yes">&nbsp; </SPAN><o:p></o:p></FONT></SPAN></P> <P style="LINE-HEIGHT: 200%; MARGIN: 0in 0in 0pt" class=MsoPlainText><SPAN style="LINE-HEIGHT: 200%; FONT-FAMILY: 'Arial','sans-serif'; FONT-SIZE: 10pt"><SPAN style="mso-tab-count: 1">&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; </SPAN>The team provided operational, intelligence, logistical, communications, engineering and planning support to the ninth rotation of Polish Forces to Afghanistan.<SPAN style="mso-spacerun: yes">&nbsp; </SPAN>The task force it supported was composed of almost 4,000 Polish and U.S. forces assisting more than 9,000 Afghan security forces in one of the largest provinces in eastern Afghanistan.<SPAN style="mso-spacerun: yes">&nbsp; </SPAN><o:p></o:p></SPAN></P> <P style="LINE-HEIGHT: 200%; TEXT-INDENT: 0.5in; MARGIN: 0in 0in 0pt" class=MsoPlainText><SPAN style="LINE-HEIGHT: 200%; FONT-FAMILY: 'Arial','sans-serif'; FONT-SIZE: 10pt">The team completed several ongoing construction projects designed to improve the safety and expand the reach of all security forces in the Ghazni Province.<SPAN style="mso-spacerun: yes">&nbsp; </SPAN><o:p></o:p></SPAN></P> <P style="LINE-HEIGHT: 200%; TEXT-INDENT: 0.5in; MARGIN: 0in 0in 0pt" class=MsoPlainText><SPAN style="LINE-HEIGHT: 200%; FONT-FAMILY: 'Arial','sans-serif'; FONT-SIZE: 10pt">The Soldiers also established development and transition programs for several of the less violent districts.<SPAN style="mso-spacerun: yes">&nbsp;&nbsp; </SPAN><o:p></o:p></SPAN></P> <P style="LINE-HEIGHT: 200%; TEXT-INDENT: 0.5in; MARGIN: 0in 0in 0pt" class=MsoPlainText><SPAN style="LINE-HEIGHT: 200%; FONT-FAMILY: 'Arial','sans-serif'; FONT-SIZE: 10pt">Most of the team participated in convoy and combat operations supporting Polish and Afghan Forces.<SPAN style="mso-spacerun: yes">&nbsp; </SPAN><o:p></o:p></SPAN></P> <P style="LINE-HEIGHT: 200%; TEXT-INDENT: 0.5in; MARGIN: 0in 0in 0pt" class=MsoNormal><SPAN style="FONT-FAMILY: 'Arial','sans-serif'"><FONT size=2>The Freedom Salute Campaign program is a small way to show these patriotic citizen-Soldiers, their families and employers how much their sacrifice is appreciated.<SPAN style="mso-spacerun: yes">&nbsp; </SPAN>On behalf of the National Guard Bureau, the Illinois Army National Guard will present each eligible Soldier with an encased American Flag, as well as a sequentially-numbered<o:p></o:p></FONT></SPAN></P> <P style="LINE-HEIGHT: 200%; MARGIN: 0in 0in 0pt" class=MsoNormal><SPAN style="FONT-FAMILY: 'Arial','sans-serif'"><FONT size=2>commemorative coin, certificate of appreciation and lapel pin.<SPAN style="mso-spacerun: yes">&nbsp; </SPAN>Families will also receive items recognizing their support and sacrifice. The Freedom Salute Campaign is one of the largest Army National Guard recognition endeavors in history.<SPAN style="mso-spacerun: yes">&nbsp; </SPAN>It is designed to publicly acknowledge Army National Guard Soldiers and those who supported them while deployed. <o:p></o:p></FONT></SPAN></P> <P style="LINE-HEIGHT: 200%; TEXT-INDENT: 0.5in; MARGIN: 0in 0in 0pt" class=MsoNormal><SPAN style="FONT-FAMILY: 'Arial','sans-serif'"><FONT size=2>News media attending the event should arrive at least 30 minutes prior to the ceremony and are required to notify the Public Affairs Office by 3 p.m. Feb. 3 or they will not be granted access onto Camp Lincoln.<SPAN style="mso-spacerun: yes">&nbsp; </SPAN>For more information call the Public Affairs Office at 217-761-3569.<o:p></o:p></FONT></SPAN></P> <P style="LINE-HEIGHT: 200%; TEXT-INDENT: 0.5in; MARGIN: 0in 0in 0pt" class=MsoNormal><SPAN style="FONT-FAMILY: 'Arial','sans-serif'"><o:p><FONT size=2></FONT></o:p></SPAN></P> <P style="TEXT-ALIGN: center; LINE-HEIGHT: 200%; MARGIN: 0in 0in 0pt" class=MsoNormal align=center><SPAN style="FONT-FAMILY: 'Arial','sans-serif'"><FONT size=2>-30-<o:p></o:p></FONT></SPAN></P> Freedom Salute Ceremony For Specialized Springfield-Based Unit
SPRINGFIELD– Approximately 20 Illinois Army National Guard Soldiers will be recognized Feb. 4 by the National Guard Bureau Freedom Salute Campaign for their sacrifice and service in support of Operation Enduring Freedom.The ceremony will be at the Illinois Military Academy at Camp Lincoln in Springfield at 10 a.m.

 
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Moore
CPL Nathaniel Moore 
1/26/2005
Champaign, Illinois
when the CH-53E helicopter he was in crashed near ArRutbah, Iraq. He was assigned to the 1st Battalion, 3rd Marine Regiment, 3rd Marine Division, III Marine Expeditionary Force, Marine Corps Base Hawaii.

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