One such leader is State Representative Wayne Rosenthal of the 108th District. After graduating from Morrisonville High School, Rosenthal joined the Illinois Air National Guard and the United States Air Force, where he quickly distinguished himself in Navigator flight training. His exceptional performance earned him the Husik Memorial Trophy, awarded to the top aviator in his class. Rosenthal went on to accumulate over 3,000 flight hours in the F-4 Phantom, a powerful aircraft known for its speed and versatility.
"The values of discipline, service, and commitment I learned in the Illinois Air National Guard are the foundation of everything I’ve done in life," says Rosenthal. "Whether in the skies or in the legislature, those principles guide me every day."
Rep. Rosenthal’s story is just one example of how the Illinois Air National Guard shapes its members into leaders. He brings the same dedication and leadership skills to his work as a public servant. In 2010, he was elected to the Illinois House of Representatives, where he served until 2015 before being appointed Director of the Illinois Department of Natural Resources. In this role, Rosenthal continued to embody the principles of service and stewardship that he learned during his time in the Guard, leading efforts to conserve Illinois’ natural resources and protect the environment for future generations. He was reelected to the Illinois House of Representatives for the 108th District in 2022 to serve during the 103rd General Assembly.
A Brief History of the Illinois Air National Guard
The history of the Illinois Air National Guard is rich with stories of bravery, perseverance, and a deep commitment to service. The Guard traces its roots back to 1927, when the 108th Observation Squadron was formed at an armory on Michigan Avenue in Chicago. The original sixteen officers and 74 enlisted men were mostly World War I veterans, and their mission was to provide aerial reconnaissance and observation support. From these modest beginnings, the Illinois Air National Guard grew into the formidable force it is today.
During World War II, the Illinois Air National Guard distinguished itself in several critical missions. The 108th Observation Squadron, for example, was stationed near the Panama Canal, where it conducted anti-submarine patrols to protect this vital strategic asset. The unit’s efforts were instrumental in maintaining the security of the canal, which was a key transportation route for Allied forces during the war.
In the post-war years, the Illinois Air National Guard continued to evolve, taking on new roles and responsibilities as the nature of warfare changed. The introduction of aircraft like the KC-135R Stratotanker and the C-130H Hercules expanded the Guard’s capabilities, allowing it to conduct air refueling missions and tactical airlift operations. These aircraft have been instrumental in supporting both domestic and international missions, demonstrating the Guard’s adaptability and readiness to meet the challenges of the modern world.
The Illinois Air National Guard has also been a crucial force in times of crisis at home. During the Great Flood of 1993, the Guard was deployed to provide critical support to communities across the state. Members of the Guard worked tirelessly to sandbag levees, assist with evacuations, and provide medical care to those affected by the disaster. Their efforts were a lifeline for many Illinois residents.
In more recent years, the Illinois Air National Guard has continued to play a vital role in national defense and humanitarian missions. After the September 11 attacks, members of the Guard were deployed to support operations around the world, including combat supply missions in Afghanistan as part of Operation Enduring Freedom. The Guard has also been involved in delivering humanitarian aid to disaster-stricken regions, such as earthquake relief supplies to Iran.
"Service isn’t just something you do; it’s who you are,” Rep. Rosenthal said. “The Illinois Air National Guard taught me that, and it’s something I strive to live by every day."
As we honor the Illinois Airborne Forces, we celebrate not just their past achievements but also the ongoing contributions of those who serve. Their legacy is one of resilience, dedication, and unwavering commitment to the values that make our state and nation strong. It is a legacy of service and leadership that will continue to inspire future generations of Illinoisans, just as it has inspired us today.