Fallen solider from McLean County honored by Illinois lawmakers

Illinois House members unanimously passed Senate Joint Resolution 56, which designates Interstate 55 as it travels through Towanda as the Sergeant Anthony R. Maddox Memorial Highway. (Photo Courtesy State Rep. Dan Brady)

 

By Neil Doyle

BLOOMINGTON – A McLean County native is being recognized for his service in the United States Army.

U.S. Army Sergeant Anthony Maddox lost his life while serving in Afghanistan in 2013.  The Illinois House and Senate have come together to honor his sacrifice.

House members unanimously passed Senate Joint Resolution 56, which designates Interstate 55 as it travels through Towanda as the Sergeant Anthony R. Maddox Memorial Highway.

“Anthony Maddox was only 22 when he lost his life serving our country.  It’s a tragedy that his life was cut short, but he will long be honored and remembered here in the community where he grew up,” said state Rep. Dan Brady.

Signs will be erected on I-55 by the Illinois Department of Transportation in Maddox’s honor.

Maddox attended Chiddix Junior High and Normal Community, where he participated in basketball and football.

Neil Doyle can be reached at [email protected]

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