State Senator Jil Tracy is pleased to announce the recent passage of Senate Joint Resolution 29, honoring the life and sacrifice of U.S. Army Specialist Anthony William “Tony” Gilman.
The resolution designates Illinois Route 96 from the City of Mozier to the Pike County line as the “Army Specialist Anthony William Gilman Highway.”
“Specialist Tony Gilman gave his life in service to our nation, and it is our duty to ensure his sacrifice is never forgotten,” said Senator Tracy. “This designation stands as a lasting tribute to a young man who loved his country and his community, and who made the ultimate sacrifice in defense of freedom.”
SPC Gilman, the son of Fred and Mary Gilman, was born in Jerseyville on January 22, 1976. He grew up in Calhoun County and graduated from Calhoun High School in 1994. Known for his love of hunting and fishing throughout Calhoun and Pike Counties, Gilman enlisted in the United States Army in 1997 and rose to the rank of Specialist.
On July 4, 1999, SPC Gilman was killed during a peacekeeping mission in Kosovo, becoming the first American casualty in that operation.
“This memorial highway will serve as a visible reminder of SPC Gilman’s bravery and the cost of the freedoms we enjoy,” said Senator Tracy. “I am grateful to the Gilman family and the Calhoun County community for their efforts to honor his legacy.”
Upon passage in the House of Representatives, the Illinois Department of Transportation will install appropriate signage along the designated route.