Illinois Lawmakers Take Break From Budget Talks, Honor Fallen Troops

Illinois legislators took time during session today to honor troops killed in war.

Credit Brian Mackey

Senator Mike Hastings is a Democrat from Tinley Park, and also a combat veteran.

He says Memorial Day is a day to honor the fallen.

"But I also think that it's a day to remember what you learned from their lives. And it's an obligation amongst yourselves to share their memories, to ensure that they're not forgotten," Hastings said.

Hastings read aloud an excerpt from musings written by a major who was killed nine years ago in Iraq. It called for living with integrity, acting on principle and being brave -- and for taking responsibility for your actions. 

Hastings says it was an appropriate reading given Illinois' sour political climate. 

A political stalemate has gripped the state for the past year. Senators later had a moment of silence.

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