State Representative David Friess (IL) | Representative David Friess (R) 115th District
State Representative David Friess (IL) | Representative David Friess (R) 115th District
Near the Illinois Capitol stands the Howlett Building, originally constructed to celebrate the state's centennial. The building houses displays marking the history of the Illinois National Guard, an institution with roots dating back to 1718 when a charter by the King of France established a local force for securing trading routes in French-occupied Illinois.
The National Guard's origins date back to December 13, 1636, when colonial Massachusetts created a local military force under its government. These formations evolved into militias like the Minutemen and later became part of George Washington's Continental Army.
Illinois' involvement in national defense is significant. During the Mexican-American War in 1846, six regiments were dispatched from Illinois. The state played a crucial role during the Civil War, supplying over 250,000 troops for President Lincoln’s army. "More than 250,000 Illinoisans were among Lincoln’s 'Boys in Blue,'” noted one historical display.
Post-Civil War, many veterans returned home and continued public service. Notably, Governor Richard Oglesby was a General while Governor Joseph Fifer served as an enlisted man known as "Private Joe." In modern times, several legislators have also been National Guard veterans including U.S. Senator Tammy Duckworth.
Illinois National Guard members first deployed overseas during the Spanish-American War in 1898. World War I saw another significant contribution with many Illinois regiments merging into the new 33rd Division which trained at Camp Logan before combat deployment in France on July 4, 1918.
World War II brought further challenges and heroics for Illinois guardsmen who were captured during Japan's invasion of the Philippines but later helped liberate it. General Douglas MacArthur praised them stating: “No finer Division has ever fought than the 33rd."
In more recent decades, Illinois guardsmen have participated in various humanitarian missions globally and provided support during domestic crises such as Hurricane Katrina relief efforts and COVID-19 pandemic responses within Illinois.
For over three centuries now—spanning combat duties abroad to disaster relief at home—the Illinois National Guard continues to embody its motto: Always Ready; Always There.
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