Gov. Blagojevich announces State of Illinois' September "Veteran of the Month"

BELLEVILLE- Governor Rod R. Blagojevich today named James R. Maule, of Belleville, as the State of Illinois' September "Veteran of the Month" for his longtime commitment and dedication to helping children, seniors, and Veterans in St. Clair County.

 

"Not only do Veterans bravely serve our country in defense of our freedom but many of them, like James Maule, keep working on behalf of others in service to their community," said Gov. Blagojevich.  "Mr. Maule continues to serve this country by helping children, seniors and other Veterans in the St. Clair County area.  For his continued dedication and service, we honor and thank him."

 

The Governor's "Veteran of the Month" award is a distinction that is given monthly to military Veterans who excel as community activists and work on behalf of other veterans.  On behalf of the Governor and Illinois Department of Veterans' Affairs (IDVA) Director Tammy Duckworth, IDVA Acting Assistant Director Sergio Estrada presented Mr. Maule with the award during a special ceremony at the Boy Scouts of America, Okaw Valley Council. 

 

"This is an award that Governor Blagojevich and the Department of Veterans' Affairs implemented to extend our deepest gratitude and appreciation for the brave men and women who have served their country in uniform and then continue to serve their community," Director Duckworth explained.  "Today we honor and say ‘thank you' to one of these individuals - Mr. James Maule." 

 

James R. Maule honorably served in the United States Air Force for over 24 years.  He retired in April 2005 at the rank of Senior Master Sergeant.

 

After retiring from the service, Mr. Maule decided he did not want to stop serving his country, so he chose to continue to better the lives of those around him.  Mr. Maule is an advocate and leader for the youth in his community with the Boy Scouts of America.  He serves as the Committee Chairman for Troop 53, Associate Advisory for Venturing Crew 53, and Activities Chairman for the St. Clair District within the Okaw Valley Council in Belleville.  Under his chairmanship of 5 annual district activities, Mr. Maul ensures and creates successful events for over 830 scouters.  The distinguished contributions he has made to scouting earned him the Boy Scouting "District Award of Merit" in 2006 and the Silver Beaver award from the Boy Scouts of America, which is the highest award for a scout leader.  The leadership and mentorship he provides will have a lasting impression with hundreds of young boys within the community for years to come.

 

"Mr. Maule is a wonderful example of what Veterans continue to do for their country after they bravely served in uniform.  Today we are here to thank him for all that he does and to show him just how much he means to the state of Illinois by presenting him with the ‘Veteran of the Month' award," added Acting Assistant Director Sergio Estrada. 

 

In addition to his voluntary commitment to the area's youth, Mr. Maule has been actively involved with the elderly and sick.  Mr. Maule has served as the Coordinator for the American Cancer Society's food program in the local community for the past three years.  He also regularly participates in the Belleville "Meals on Wheels" program, helping to deliver meals to senior citizens and those in need.

 

During his many years of service, Mr. Maule earned numerous military honors including the Meritorious Service Medal, Air Force Commendation Medal, Air Force Achievement Medal, the NATO Medal, and the Global War on Terrorism Service Medal.  However, the one medal that means the most to him is the Military Outstanding Volunteer Service Medal because it showcases his service and commitment to the community. 

 

Mr. Maule is a regular visitor to the local VA Hospital where he unselfishly spends his time and energy, even on holidays, to enhance the lives of the wounded or sick. 

 

Mr. Maule currently works as an Administrative Assistant for the Headquarters Air Mobility Command, Directorate of Air, Space, and Information Operations Directorate at Scott Air Force Base and was awarded with the "outstanding" 2006 category-one civilian employee of the year.

 

The "Veteran of the Month" award highlights the work of community activists who are also military veterans.  Each month, on behalf of Governor Blagojevich, the Department recognizes a different person or group that contributes to the betterment of communities across the state of Illinois.  To nominate a "Veteran of the Month," please visit IDVA's website at www.state.il.us/agency/dva or call IDVA at (312) 814-5391 to obtain a list of guidelines and a nomination form.