Seen on the Illinois Tollway: Memorials to our Veterans
Numerous memorials throughout the Illinois Tollway system serve as reminders of the service and sacrifices of those who have served in the U.S. armed forces.
“This Memorial Day, and every day, the Illinois Tollway honors those who have served our country, especially those who made the ultimate sacrifice in defending our freedoms,” said Illinois Tollway Executive Director José Alvarez. “We are forever indebted to those whose service and sacrifices allow us to enjoy peace and prosperity, spending time with our families and friends.”
Most notably, the entire length of I-355 from Army Trail Road in Addison to I-80 in New Lenox is named the Veterans Memorial Tollway to honor all those who have served.
At the Spring Creek Toll Plaza at the southernmost end of I-355 is a memorial that includes flags representing all branches of the military.
And the Des Plaines River Valley Bridge in Lemont features emblems and blue lights on the pillars at both ends of the bridge to recognize veterans.
Visitors to the O’Hare Oasis off the Tri-State Tollway (I-294) in Schiller Park can visit a POW-MIA memorial monument. Located on the southbound side of the oasis near the 7-Eleven, the marker recognizes all service members from all branches and eras, those who served and returned and those missing or held as prisoners of war. A nearby sign bears the names of 18 service members from the area who went missing in action or are deceased.
The Grand Avenue Bridge over I-94 in Gurnee is named the Allen J. Lynch Medal of Honor Overpass to honor the Army veteran for his heroic actions in the Vietnam War, where he defended three wounded soldiers from enemy attacks until they could be safely evacuated. Sgt. Lynch resides in Gurnee and remains active in military-related activities.
The Illinois Tollway is grateful to all who have served or continue to serve in our armed forces, including the 56 Tollway employees who are veterans.