This photo from our 2017 calendar, taken September 13, 1917, shows 20,000 citizens at the train station at LaSalle and New York Sreet giving a rousing sendoff to 367 members of the Aurora-based National Guard, Third Illinois Infantry. They later became members of the 129th Infantry of the 33rd Division.
Although most of them returned in June 1919, having seen action in several major battles, 11 never came home, and 125 were wounded or gassed. We remember those lost and send our respectful Memorial Day greetings to all who have served our country at home and abroad.
