Bill > HR0566

This resolution recognizes and honors Flight Officer Shirl P. Best, an Illinois native who served during World War II. Born in Durand in 1921, Best joined the United States Air Force in October 1942 and graduated as a navigator in July 1944, shortly after marrying Mary E. Van Etten. As a member of the "Hell's Angels" squadron stationed at Molesworth Air Base in England, he flew 14 missions in a B-17G bomber, including support during the Battle of the Bulge. On February 9, 1945, during a mission to Lutzkendorf, Germany, Best's plane was shot down by enemy anti-aircraft guns, but before crashing, he and his crew heroically released their payload to prevent destruction of the nearby Village of Eisenberg, potentially saving hundreds of lives. Best remained unidentified for nearly 40 years until his remains were recovered in 1991, confirmed by his wedding band. The resolution highlights his ultimate sacrifice, commemorates his bravery, and acknowledges the memorial erected by Eisenberg residents in 1995. The Illinois House of Representatives seeks to honor Best's memory and recognize him as an example of the heroism of World War II veterans, while also drawing attention to the 3,711 Illinois military personnel still unaccounted for from that conflict.

https://www.ilga.gov/Legislation/BillStatus?DocNum=566&GAID=18&DocTypeID=HR&SessionID=114&GA=104