Illinois Air National Guard, Brig. Gen. (ret.) Wayne Rosenthal, was named “Legislator of the Year” by the National Guard Association of Illinois. The announcement was made at the association’s annual dinner, April 24, at Destihl Beer Hall in Normal, Illinois.
According to the association, Rosenthal has “consistently engaged on issues impacting service members, veterans, and military families, with a strong focus on policies that strengthen the Illinois National Guard’s ability to meet both state and federal missions.”
“I am truly honored to receive the National Guard Legislator of the Year award. To be recognized by the men and women of the National Guard, is incredibly humbling.
My time serving in the Illinois National Guard and the United States Air Force shaped who I am today. It taught me the value of discipline, teamwork, and service above self. Those lessons didn’t end when I took off the uniform, they continue to guide me every day in the legislature.
This award is not just about me. It reflects the work we are doing together to support our service members, veterans, and their families. They make sacrifices most will never fully see, balancing careers, families, and the call to serve at a moment’s notice. They deserve our full support, not just in words, but in action.”
Rosenthal is a state representative representing the 108th District, which includes Menard County and portions of Christian, Macoupin, Montgomery and Sangamon Counties.