The Ceremony will highlight Cpl. Miller’s heroic actions and unveil the highway signs that will stand along Route 140. The event is free to attend and open to the public.

Date: Saturday, July 25, 2026

Time: 10:00 AM

Location: Zion Lutheran Church, 625 Church Drive, Bethalto

Cpl. Tommy Neal Miller was born on July 19, 1949 and was raised in Meadowbrook near Bethalto in Madison County. Cpl. Miller enlisted in the United States Marine Corps and served during the Vietnam War; he began his tour of duty on June 10, 1968. His military specialty was mortarman, and he was attached to Echo Company, Second Battalion, Fourth Marines, Third Marine Division.

While serving as a radio operator on the morning of February 25, 1969 at Fire Support Base Russell in Quang Tri Province in South Vietnam, under assault by a large North Vietnamese Army sappers unit, Cpl. Miller unhesitatingly maneuvered across the fire-swept terrain in search of an undamaged radio; after locating operable equipment, he again exposed himself to hostile fire to assist the commanding officer with restoring communications; he then went to the aid of his fellow Marines to free them from entrapment in debris. As Cpl. Miller attempted to free his comrades, he was mortally wounded by fragments from an enemy grenade.

Cpl. Miller’s heroic and timely actions inspired all who observed him and contributed greatly to repelling the enemy’s assault. Cpl. Miller’s commendations include the Bronze Star Medal with Combat “V”, the Purple Heart, the Combat Action Ribbon, the National Defense Service Medal, the Vietnam Campaign Medal, the Vietnam Service Medal, the Marine Corps Presidential Unit Citation, the Vietnam Gallantry Cross, the Marine Corps Good Conduct Medal, and the Marine Corps Expeditionary Medal.

Cpl. Miller is honored on the Vietnam Veterans Memorial in Washington, DC; his name is inscribed at VVM Wall, Panel 31w, Line 53. Like so many who gave the ultimate sacrifice and gave up many years of their lives, Cpl. Miller will forever be 19.

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“Our first responders answer the call every day without hesitation, and they deserve the equipment they need to do their jobs safely and effectively,” said Senator Harriss. “When Chief Dankenbring shared the department’s need for a new ambulance, I knew it was an investment that could help save lives. I’m proud to help deliver the resources our first responders need to continue serving the people of Maryville.”

The ceremony included the remarks from local leaders and the formal presentation of the ambulance by Senator Harriss to Chief Doug Dankenbring on behalf of the Maryville Village Fire Department.

“This new ambulance is a tremendous investment in our department and in the people we serve,” said Chief Dankenbring. “Reliable equipment is essential to providing quality emergency care, and this ambulance will help us continue responding quickly and safely when our community needs us. We appreciate Senator Harriss’ advocacy and the support from the State of Illinois that helped make this possible.”

Following a blessing by Pastor Jeff Chamberlain and Chaplain Bill Dempsey, the ambulance was officially commissioned and placed into service. Senator Harriss, Mayor Wayne White, firefighters, EMS personnel, and special guests then participated in the department’s traditional Push-In Ceremony, symbolizing the ambulance’s readiness to serve the Maryville community.

“This new ambulance is an investment in the safety and well-being of our residents,” said Mayor White. “We are grateful for Senator Harriss’ partnership and advocacy in securing this funding. This investment strengthens our emergency response capabilities and ensures our firefighters, paramedics, and EMTs have the equipment they need to continue providing exceptional service to our community.”

Ambulance 2241 will provide the Maryville Village Fire Department with reliable, modern equipment to respond to medical emergencies and continue delivering high-quality care to residents for years to come.

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104th General Assembly

SB 90 (P.A. 104-0450): Expands who may request debt offsets through the Comptroller.

HB 111 (P.A. 104-0464): Fiscal Year 2027 Budget.

SB 408 (P.A. 104-0356): Provides that “Student Permanent Record” shall include a summary of performance for students who received special-education services. The records will be confidential.

SB 618 (P.A. 104-0451): Liquor Omnibus Bill. Among other things, it makes the state’s temporary “cocktails-to-go” law permanent.

HB 862 (P.A. 104-0465): Encourages efficiency by dissolving and merging numerous state special funds.

HB 1226 (P.A. 104-0169): Changes the age for when senior drivers must take a behind-the-wheel driving test when renewing their driver’s license.

SB 1504 (P.A. 104-0107): Helps ensure that all youth leaving the care of the Department of Children and Family Services have been provided the life skills necessary to become successful adults.

SB 1701 (P.A. 104-0118): Clarifies state laws with regard to collective bargaining for police.

SB 1799 (P.A. 104-0393): Amends the School Code to clarify terms and definitions with regard to “emergency situations.”

HB 1863 (P.A. 104-0435): Cleans up the statutes with regard to non-active commissions and advisory boards.

SB 2201 (P.A. 104-0412): Increases transparency to help provide better insight into the challenges and efforts within correctional facilities to manage contraband, support rehabilitation, and address health emergencies.

HB 2386 (P.A. 104-0216): Provides for the issuance of special license plates designated as “Armed Forces Expeditionary Medal.”

HB 2517 (P.A. 104-0061): Requires health care workers who provide maternal health care services to participate in a training course that addresses potential maternal health risk factors associated with individuals who are part of a marginalized racial or ethnic group with increased maternal mortality rates.

HB 2801 (P.A. 104-0249): Requires the Illinois State Board of Education (ISBE) to post a public form on its website for organizations to submit science, technology, engineering, arts, and math opportunities. These opportunities can include internships, externships, and volunteer work.

HB 2949 (P.A. 104-0466): Budget Implementation Bill.

HB 2962 (P.A. 104-0256): Creates a new classification of driving permit for multifunction school activity buses that carry up to 15 passengers, including the driver.

SB 3019 (P.A. 104-0468): Revenue Omnibus to Fund the Budget.

HB 3363 (P.A. 104-0300): Establishes a comprehensive State Public Defender system in Illinois and creates an independent agency within the judicial branch of state government.

SB 3365 (P.A. 104-0470): Medicaid Omnibus.

HB 3851 (P.A. 104-0338): Establishes that “cyber-bullying” also includes the posting or distribution of an unauthorized digital replica by electronic means if the posting or distribution creates any of the effects provided in the definition of “bullying,” and provides that bullying may take the form of posting or distributing sexually explicit images.

103rd General Assembly   

SB 1 (P.A. 103-0594): Creates the Department of Early Childhood.

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“Our Kids Fair continues to grow each year because families appreciate having a place where they can learn about services available to their children while enjoying a fun day together,” said Senator Harriss. “It was wonderful to see so many families connecting with community organizations and taking advantage of the resources offered.”

The free event provided families with access to valuable local and state resources while offering a variety of activities designed to entertain children of all ages. This year’s Kids Fair featured a popular foam party, face painting, balloon artistry, a touch-a-truck experience, and complimentary vision and hearing screenings.

“As legislators, serving our communities goes beyond our work in Springfield,” said Representative Elik. “Events like the Kids Fair allow us to connect directly with families, provide helpful information, and bring people together. We’re grateful for everyone who helped make this event such a success.”

Attendees also enjoyed free snacks and refreshments provided through the generous support of community sponsors, including Kraft Heinz, Meridian, and Granite City Route 66.

Senator Harriss and Representative Elik extend their sincere thanks to the many participating organizations, volunteers, sponsors, and community partners, including The Mill Events, whose support and dedication helped make this year’s Kids Fair another successful community event.

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“Supporting our 911 system and emergency communications network is one of the most important investments we can make in public safety,” said Senator Harriss. “This grant will help Madison County continue providing dependable emergency services while ensuring our first responders have the resources they need to serve residents effectively.”

The ETSB oversees and maintains Madison County’s enhanced 9-1-1 system, connecting residents with police, fire, and emergency medical personnel when they need help most. The new facility will provide long-term operational stability and support future technology upgrades as public safety needs continue to evolve.

Madison County Board Chairman Chris Slusser thanked Senator Harriss for her efforts in securing the state funding.

“Senator Harriss has consistently been a strong advocate for Madison County and understands the importance of investing in infrastructure that serves our residents every day,” said Chairman Slusser. “Her leadership in securing this grant funding will help strengthen a critical public safety asset while reducing costs to local taxpayers.”

In addition to enhancing emergency communications capabilities, the project is expected to support ongoing economic development efforts in downtown Wood River. The presence of county employees and visitors at the facility will increase activity in the area, helping drive foot traffic and supporting local businesses as the city continues its downtown revitalization efforts.

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“One of the most important parts of our job is providing helpful services and resources to the people we represent,” said Senator Harriss. “Events like this free shred day are just one way our offices can give back and help residents safely protect their personal information at no cost.”

“We’re pleased to bring this free event to Pontoon Beach,” Rep. Elik stated. “I hope that residents will take this opportunity to get rid of some documents you’ve been holding on to that need secure disposal. See you in Pontoon Beach!”

Event details are as follows:

Saturday, June 27

10:00 AM – 11:30 AM

3 Regency Parkway, Granite City

To participate, simply drive to the location where staff will assist.

Questions can be directed to Rep. Elik’s office at elik@ilhousegop.org or 618-433-8046.

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“People are frustrated, and they have every right to be,” said Senator Jason Plummer. “Families are paying more for electricity, more at the gas pump, and more in property taxes, yet many feel like Springfield isn’t listening. That’s why these town halls matter. We work for the people of Illinois, and they deserve answers, transparency, and a government that focuses on their priorities instead of political agendas.”

The event provided constituents with an opportunity to hear directly from their state senators about legislative activity in Springfield and ask questions on a wide range of topics. Discussion focused on rising energy costs, the state’s motor fuel tax, increasing property taxes, education policy, and the legislative process in Springfield.

“We greatly appreciate everyone who took the time to attend and participate in the conversation,” said Senator Harriss. “These town halls are an important way for us to hear directly from the people we represent and provide transparency about the decisions being made in Springfield.”

Both Senators would like to thank the Edwardsville Gun Club for hosting the event and expressed their appreciation to Paul and the club staff for their continued hospitality and support.

Residents who were unable to attend are encouraged to contact either legislative office with questions, concerns, or requests for assistance with state government matters.

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This fun-filled community event will feature a variety of activities for children and families, including touch-a-truck, face painting, a foam party, balloon art, free food, and much more. The Kids Fair is designed to bring families together for a morning of entertainment, exploration, and community engagement.

The event is free and open to the public. Families are encouraged to stop by, enjoy the activities, and connect with local organizations and community resources.

For additional information, visit senatorericaharriss.com/event/kidsfair2026.

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Attendees will have the chance to hear directly from both senators about the work completed during the spring session, ask questions about state government, and share feedback on issues important to their communities. The town hall is intended to encourage open dialogue and ensure residents have access to information about decisions being made at the state level.

Senators Plummer and Harriss encourage residents to attend and participate in the discussion. The event is free and open to the public and will be held at the Edwardsville Gun Club.

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“Our firefighters and first responders work tirelessly to protect our communities, often operating with limited budgets and resources,” said Senator Harriss. “These grants help ensure departments have access to the equipment they need to respond effectively to emergencies and keep both residents and emergency personnel safe.”

The grants are part of a statewide initiative that awarded $6 million to 260 fire departments, fire protection districts, and EMS providers to assist with the purchase of small firefighting and ambulance equipment.

Departments receiving grant funding in the 56th Senate District include:

• Village of East Alton Fire Department – $14,634
• Alton Fire Department – $18,452
• Granite City Fire Department – $25,988.38
• Long Lake Volunteer Fire Department – $25,827.48
• Roxana Fire Department – $26,000
• Village of Maryville Fire Department – $26,000
• Hamel Fire Protection District – $25,000
• City of Wood River Fire Department – $25,000
• Godfrey Fire Protection District – $20,260
• Glen Carbon Fire Protection District – $23,622
• Village of Bethalto Fire Department – $16,244
• O’Fallon Fire Department – $26,000
• Fairview Caseyville Township Fire Protection District – $24,000
• Village of Fairmont City Fire Department – $26,000

The Small Equipment Grant Program was created to help fire departments and nonprofit ambulance services address equipment needs that can be difficult to fund through local revenues alone. Grants of up to $26,000 are available for the purchase of essential small equipment that supports emergency response operations.

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