SPRINGFIELD - Former members of the Guard and Reserve who do not have any periods of active duty other than their initial active duty for training and annual training are now eligible to receive "Veteran" on their driver’s licenses. "This bill ensures that every man and woman who has served this state and nation is recognized," said Illinois Department of Veterans’ Affairs Director Erica Jeffries. "Our veterans have given so much for us, and I am glad Illinois is taking this step to expand designations."
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At the 98th Annual American Legion Department of Illinois Convention in Springfield last Friday (7/15/2016), Governor Bruce Rauner signed Senate Bill 2173 to allow National Guard members and reservists to obtain the veteran identifier on their Illinois driver's license.
In order to receive that designation, veterans of the Guard and Reserve are required to present a copy of their certificate of release or discharge from initial active duty, certified and stamped by the Illinois Department of Veterans Affairs (IDVA), to the Secretary of State. Prior to receiving this stamp they must provide documentation of satisfactorily completing the time for which they were contracted to attend monthly drills and annual training. Presentation of one of the following documents will be accepted as proof of service:
1. Army or Air National Guard NGB 22 Report of Separation and Record of Service
2. Army Reserve DARP FM 249-2E Chronological Statement of Retirement Points.
3. Navy Reserve NRPC 1070-124 Annual Retirement Point Record
4. Air Force Reserve AF 526 Point Summary Sheet
5. USMC Reserve NAVMC 798 Reserve Retirement Credit Report
6. Coast Guard CG 4175 Coast Guard Reserve Annual or Terminal Statement of Retirement Points.
Veterans are encouraged to contact or visit a local IDVA office for assistance obtaining any of the above documents. To find the closest Veteran Service Officer (VSO) go to www.illinois.gov/veterans or call 800-437-9824.
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