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

CHICAGO- Governor Rod R. Blagojevich today named longtime Chicago resident Le Anda E. "Rick" Murray as the State of Illinois' December "Veteran of the Month" for his unwavering commitment to the veterans of Cook County.  Rick Murray has been a loyal advocate and friend to veterans by volunteering his time to tend to the sick and wounded.

 

"In communities across the state of Illinois, veterans continue their commitment to serving our country and its people, even after their tour of duty is complete.  Rick Murray is one of these extraordinary veterans.  He has dedicated many years of selfless service for the veterans in Cook County and continues to help improve the quality of life for our military heroes," said Gov. Blagojevich.

 

The Governor's "Veteran of the Month" award is a distinction that is given monthly to military veterans who give back to their community and other veterans.  On behalf of the Governor, Illinois Department of Veterans' Affairs (IDVA) Director L. Tammy Duckworth, presented Rick Murray with the award during a special ceremony today at the South Shore Cultural Center in Chicago. 

 

"Rick Murray is an example of what the Veteran of the Month award embodies.  He not only served this country in uniform, but he has served the City of Chicago for decades, helping to honor his fellow comrades both physically and spiritually.  Today we rightfully honor Mr. Murray with this award," IDVA Director L. Tammy Duckworth said.

 

In 1950, Rick Murray enlisted in the United States Army at the young age of 17 and served as a Paratrooper with the 82^nd Airborne Division during the Korean War.  He was honorably discharged from the Army in 1953 and received the Good Conduct Medal and the Parachutist Badge for his brave military service.

 

After returning home, Mr. Murray wanted to continue to serve his country and be involved with the veteran community.  He became a professional singer and soloist, studying voice under the late Zilner T. Randolph, a renowned composer and arranger for many of America's greatest jazz artists including Louis Armstrong.  Mr. Murray chose to use his talent to honor his country and the brave men and women who sacrificed their lives for our freedom, by performing the National Anthem for various events throughout the Chicago-land area.  He has performed at Navy Pier and the Daley Center for a number of ceremonies honoring WWII Veterans and Pearl Harbor Day; the White Sox and Yankee's game in 2003; Hispanic American Law Enforcement Officers; the Governor's Office at the State Fair in 2006; the Merchant Marines in 2007; and for the City of Chicago Memorial Day Parade. 

 

He is a lifetime member of the 555^th Parachute Infantry Association, Samuel W. Robinson Chicago Chapter, where he has served as the Public Information Officer and as the Recruiting Officer from 1982 to present.  Mr. Murray is also a lifetime member of the Disabled American Veterans (DAV), a member of the American Legion, the Combined Veterans Association, and the Original 39rs community organization, which supports good citizenship by giving annual awards to those who merit recognition.  Mr. Murray was also one of the original co-founders of the Minority Veterans Steering Committee.

 

For the past five years, Mr. Murray has assisted in burial ceremonies for Chicago's homeless veterans, often singing at the funerals.  Mr. Murray has also volunteered countless hours of his time to enhance the lives of those veterans who are injured and sick by serving as a Veteran Volunteer at the Chicago area VA hospitals for the past 20 years.  He also serves on the Veterans' Advisory Council for the City of Chicago. 

 

In addition to his commitment to Veterans, Mr. Murray is devoted to helping the youth community.  He participates in the Lincoln's ChalleNGe Academy mentor program, serving as a role model, friend and advocate to a young cadet.  Mr. Murray dedicates his time helping the youth attain the skills and confidence that are needed to become a responsible young adult.

 

Born on February 23, 1933 in Little Rock, Arkansas, Mr. Murray moved to Chicago three short years later, where he has resided ever since.  He is married to his wife Barbara of 45 years, has four children, two grandchildren, and a great grandchild.  Mr. Murray is a graduate of Wendell Phillips High School, played semi-professional football with the Chicago Atomics and was an amateur boxer.  In addition to his work for Veterans and singing profession, Mr. Murray worked at the Metropolitan Water Reclamation District of Greater Chicago for 23 years, retiring in 1995. 

 

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 (217) 785-4114 to obtain a list of guidelines and a nomination form.