SPRINGFIELD, Ill. (WBBM NEWSRADIO) -- It was seemingly over before it began- a made-for-television war with Gen. Norman Schwarzkopf as the breakout star.
However, Operation Desert Storm was real and despite its brevity and despite America’s decisive victory, it is not to be taken lightly, according to speakers at the Illinois Department of Veterans Affairs’ annual observance at the Illinois State Military Museum in Springfield.
The keynote speaker admitted holding back, confining her remarks largely to humorous stories about recruiters and latrines.
“The experiences I shared today only scratch the surface. I didn’t want to risk unpacking memories for myself or others in this room that may have a hard time repacking them away again,” said Lt. Col. Rynesha Brown, who joined the National Guard right after graduation from high school – and right before the conflict began.
“Desert Shield / Desert Storm was the beginning of an era that has yet to end.”
Gen. Mark Alessia also spoke about the lasting impact the military operation had.
“Those 100 hours changed lives forever and changed the way society views the military," he said. "For the next three decades, the United States military is viewed as one of the most respected and trusted institutions in our government. That was not the case prior to Operation Desert Storm.”
The fighting ended Feb. 28, 1991. Eighteen Illinoisans died in the conflict.
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