Frankfort Soldier awarded Legion of Merit

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Col. Jackson Legion of Merit

SPRINGFIELD, IL (03/01/2016)(readMedia)-- Col. Mark Jackson, of Frankfort, Illinois, was awarded the Legion of Merit during a ceremony at Camp Lincoln in Springfield, Illinois, Feb. 27. The award was presented by Maj. Gen. Richard Hayes Jr., The Adjutant General of the Illinois National Guard, during the Senior Leaders Conference Feb. 26-28 at the Illinois Military Academy.

Jackson enlisted in the Illinois Army National Guard in June 1984 and commissioned as a second lieutenant in May 1987 after completing the Reserve Officer Training Corps at Illinois State University. Jackson previously commanded of the 33rd Infantry Brigade Combat Team, in Urbana, Illinois, and the 65th Troop Command Brigade in Springfield, Illinois. He currently serves on the Illinois National Guard's joint staff as the Director of Operations and Training.

Jackson's award citation stated he "demonstrated extraordinary leadership, exceptional knowledge and unmatched professionalism which propelled both brigades to reach the highest levels of readiness."

Jackson also continues to develop relations with the Illinois National Guard's Polish counterparts as part of the State Partnership Program.

Jackson's previous awards include the Bronze Star Medal and the Meritorious Service Medal with three oak leaf clusters.

Created in 1942, the Legion of Merit is the fourth highest honor for members of the U.S. Armed Forces and it recognizes exceptional meritorious conduct in the performance of outstanding services and achievements.

Cutline: Maj. Gen. Richard Hayes Jr. (right), The Adjutant General of the Illinois National Guard, shakes hands and presents the Legion of Merit citation to Col. Mark Jackson, of Frankfort, Illinois, during a ceremony at Camp Lincoln, Springfield, Illinois Feb. 27. Jackson was honored for his exemplary service to the Illinois Army National Guard. (U.S. Army photo by Lt. Col. Bradford Leighton, Illinois National Guard Public Affairs Office)