Illinois National Guard

Family, friends, fellow Soldiers and military leaders gathered to celebrate the retirement of Sergeant Major Jeffrey C. Sima after 36 years of dedicated service to the Illinois Army National Guard.

After enlisting in 1990, Sgt. Maj. Sima served in numerous assignments and leadership positions throughout the organization, culminating in his role as the G4 Sergeant Major at Joint Force Headquarters. Throughout his career, he remained committed to mentoring Soldiers, developing leaders, and strengthening the teams he served.

During the ceremony, leaders reflected on his humility, dedication, and lasting impact on the Illinois Army National Guard.

Thank you, Sgt. Maj. Sima, for 36 years of selfless service and leadership. Congratulations on your well-earned retirement!

(U.S. Army photos by Spc. Davanh Sanamixay, Illinois National Guard Public Affairs.)

The Illinois National Guard welcomed employers from across the region for a Boss Lift to the St. Louis area July 9, giving them a firsthand look at the training, equipment and mission readiness their employees support while serving in uniform.

During the event, participants traveled aboard a UH-60 Black Hawk, met with Soldiers, learned about the Illinois National Guard's dual state and federal mission, and gained a greater appreciation for the leadership, discipline and commitment service members bring back to their civilian workplaces.

Conducted in partnership with Employer Support of the Guard and Reserve (ESGR)/ Illinois ESGR, the Boss Lift strengthens the relationship between employers and the Guard by providing a unique opportunity to experience military service from a Soldier's perspective. Through events like these, employers gain a better understanding of the valuable skills and experiences their employees develop while serving their state and nation.

A special thank you to the exceptional aircrew who made this Boss Lift possible: 1st Lt. Kyle Kiper, 2nd Lt. Howard Sterling, Sgt. Ellis Jagger, and Sgt. Lynn Trestin.

Your professionalism, expertise and commitment to safely transporting our guests helped make this event both memorable and informative.

Thank you to the employers who joined us and for your continued support of the Illinois National Guard and our Citizen-Soldiers.

(📸: 2nd Lt. Trenton Fouche, Joint Force Headquarters – Illinois National Guard)

Loud noise, big hearts for Illinois Vietnam Veteran:

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