LOCKPORT – In recognition of sacrifices made by brave Illinoisans who have served our country, State Senator John Connor (D-Lockport) is inviting people to write friendly and encouraging letters to residents of veteran’s homes ahead of Veterans Day.

“Our veterans have all made tremendous sacrifices for us, and Operation Rising Spirit gives us an opportunity to honor those sacrifices,” Connor said. “In our community and across the state, our service members deserve to feel recognized and appreciated for their contributions.”

Operation Rising Spirit is an initiative of the Illinois Department of Veterans’ Affairs that encourages communities to write letters to residents in the care of veterans’ homes in Illinois. At a time when isolation is at a record high, the letters are meant to extend friendly affirmation for the bravery and courage of veterans both throughout their service and the pandemic.

“Due to the COVID-19 pandemic, many residents of long-term care facilities have not been able to see friends or family for quite some time,” Connor said. “By taking the time to send kind messages and words of encouragement, we can help make our veterans across the state feel remembered and appreciated, and combat the loneliness they may be experiencing.”

The campaign will focus on veterans’ homes in Illinois, located in Anna, Chicago, LaSalle, Manteno, and Quincy. To send a message to a veteran or a veteran home, visit Send-a-note. For people wanting to send physical letters, locations for each of the veterans’ homes can be found here.