The Western Illinois Museum will host Honoring Our Local Veterans on Sunday, November 2, 2025, from 1:00 to 3:30 p.m. This special afternoon invites the community to reflect on the contributions and stories of local veterans through presentations, readings, and conversations.

The program features a talk by Cory Booher on WWI and WWII veteran and WIU football coach Colonel Raymond “Rock” Hanson, followed by readings from local veterans participating in the SITREP Program. Guests are invited to listen, share, and connect as we honor those who have served. A suggested $5 donation will be accepted at the door.
In his presentation, “What Does It Mean to Be a Leatherneck Veteran?” Cory Booher draws on his own military experience and passion for Western Illinois University history to explore the ties between the Macomb community, WIU, and the U.S. military. He highlights how local residents and university members served with distinction in both World Wars and beyond, helping shape WIU’s proud identity as a military-friendly institution. The Fighting Leathernecks mascot stands as a lasting tribute to that legacy.

Through his talk, Booher honors the military achievements of Colonel Hanson and other Macomb heroes, sharing the origins of the Leatherneck nickname, the story behind WIU’s bulldog mascot, and the community spirit that contributed to our nation’s military success.

Following Booher’s presentation, William Bailey, Ryan Bronaugh, and Ron Pettigrew will present readings from SITREP: Veteran Perspectives on Combat and Peace, a writing project and publication that gives WIU student veterans a platform to share their experiences, reflections, and personal stories.

The reading will be followed by a conversation with SITREP coordinators Barbara Lawhorn and Jacque Wilson. Together with the authors, they will discuss the role writing plays in understanding personal history, building community, and shaping collective perspectives on military service.

Schedule
1:00 to 1:45 pm: Ray Hanson Presentation
2:00 to 3:00 pm: SITREP Reading and Conversation
Followed by refreshments and socializing