ILLINOIS NATIONAL GUARD CELEBRATES NATIONAL GUARD AND CAMP LINCOLN BIRTHDAYS

• Illinois National Guard

• Illinois State Military Museum

• Maj. Gen. Richard J. Hayes, The Adjutant General of the Illinois National Guard

• Mayor Jim Langfelder, City of Springfield

• Springfield-area choirs

The Illinois National Guard will host a cake cutting ceremony to commemorate the 380th birthday of the National Guard and the 130th anniversary of Camp Lincoln.

This event coincides with the Illinois State Military Museum’s “Christmas at the Front,” an annual event meant to educate visitors on how Soldiers celebrated Christmas during four conflicts: Revolutionary War, Civil War, World War I and World War II. Living Historians will tell the stories and Dr. Chris McDonald, Lincoln Land Community College professor of political science, will provide a short talk on Soldier’s Christmas letters. Hear holiday carols by local choirs. Coffee, hot chocolate, cider and cookies available afternoon and evening.

The Museum will accept donations of new, unwrapped toys for Toys for Tots.

Event is open to the public

Admission and parking are free.

News media attending the event should arrive at least 15 minutes prior to the ceremony and should notify the Public Affairs Office prior to the event. For additional information, contact the Illinois National Guard Public Affairs Officer at 217-761-3569 or ng.il.ilarng.list.staff-pao@mail.mil.