Shimkus Sends Valentines

SHIMKUS SENDS THOUSANDS OF VALENTINES TO HEROES

Collinsville, Illinois...For the fifth straight year, Congressman John Shimkus (R, Illinois-19) asked his constituents to submit valentines for the men and women, past and present, of our nation's armed forces.  And for the fifth straight year, an overwhelming response was the result.

“I am again humbled by the reaction to this Valentines for Heroes project,” Shimkus said.  “We estimate more than 6,000 valentines were collected by my offices from the generous people of our region – many even from patriotic citizens outside the 19th Congressional District who wanted to share their support.”

Added Shimkus, “Contributions came from school children, church groups, families, and individuals.”

The valentines have been distributed to active duty personnel at Scott Air Force Base, as well as those recovering from injuries and illnesses at the new Walter Reed National Military Medical Center in Bethesda, Maryland.  Veterans facilities receiving valentines included the Marion VA Medical Center, Illiana VA Medical Center in Danville, St. Louis VA Medical Center John Cochran Division and Jefferson Barracks Division, Mt. Vernon VA Clinic, Springfield VA Clinic, Effingham VA Clinic, Illinois Veterans Home in Quincy, and Illinois Veterans Home in Anna.