Flags to be flown at half-staff for PVT Aaron Toppen

BY ORDER OF THE GOVERNOR - Flags to be flown at half-staff for PVT Aaron Toppen

WHEREAS, all citizens owe a tremendous debt of gratitude to the men and women of the armed forces who selflessly serve to protect our lives and keep our families safe; and,

WHEREAS, every day these men and women face great risks and put their safety on the line to perform their duties; and,

WHEREAS, on June 9, 2014, Private First Class Aaron Toppen lost his life at the age of 19 from wounds suffered while engaged in a combat operation in Gaza Village, Afghanistan; and,

WHEREAS, a native of Mokena, Illinois, and a 2013 graduate of Lincoln-Way East High School, Private First Class Aaron Toppen made vast contributions to the Land of Lincoln; and,

WHEREAS, Private First Class Aaron Toppen enlisted in the Army in July 2013 and trained at Fort Benning Georgia; and,

WHEREAS, an avid outdoorsman and dedicated public servant, Private First Class Aaron Toppen was raised in a proud military family and always wanted to serve his country; and,

WHEREAS, Private First Class Aaron Toppen had been awarded the National Defense Service Medal, Afghanistan Campaign Medal with campaign star, the Global War on Terrorism Service Medal, the Army Service Ribbon, and the NATO Medal; and,

WHEREAS, throughout his career as a proud member of the United States Army, Private First Class Aaron Toppen represented the State of Illinois admirably; and,

WHEREAS, known for being kind, humble and dedicated to his family, Private First Class Aaron Toppen left an indelible mark on everyone who had an opportunity to meet him; and,

WHEREAS, a funeral will be held on Tuesday, June, 24, 2014, for Private First Class Aaron Toppen, a loving son, grandson, and brother, who is survived by many family members and friends; and,

THEREFORE, I, Pat Quinn, Governor of the State of Illinois, do hereby order all persons or entities governed by the Illinois Flag Display Act to fly their flags at half-staff from sunrise on Sunday, June 22, 2014, until sunset on Tuesday, June 24, 2014, in honor and remembrance of Private First Class Aaron Toppen, whose selfless service and sacrifice is an inspiration.