Events and proclamations encourage everyone to Purple Up for military children

Marine veteran Dave Johnson, the American Legion State Chairman for Children and Youth, spoke of the importance of supporting military children at the April 7, 2026 Rockton Village Board meeting.

Village President John Peterson read this related proclamation:

“The American Legion, since its founding in 1919 has devoted much of its talent, effort and resources to improving conditions for our nations youth, and The Americanism, children and youth programs of the American Legion provide settings that permit children to realize and to achieve their full potential, and The American Legion and American Legion Auxiliary have labored unselfishly to achieve this goal through their untiring efforts, dedicated leadership and devotion to overriding principals of the benevolent programs.”

The proclamation was also read and received great support in Roscoe and South Beloit.
The Wearing of the color purple on this date indicates the color of all military branches combined. Army-Green, Marines-Red, Navy, Air Force, Coast Guard, and Space Force-Blue.

A request was made in the proclamation that all communities honor military children by wearing purple in support of military children on April 15, 2026.

All are invited to join in a community photo at the Rockton American Legion at 5:45, followed by a newly introduced “Polar Bear picnic” that promises to be full of treats. Treat donations will also be accepted from the public.

Another option to support “Children and Youth” is to bring your family and friends to a Purple Up Ball coming this Saturday, April 11.

Dress casually or wear any purple clothing and join in the fun this Saturday from 4 p.m. - 8 p.m. at the American Center (Legion). The cost to join in the fun is $5 per adult, teenagers (ages 12-18) $2 each, ages 5-12 $1 each, and children 4 and under are free. All money that is raised will be used for programs for kids and future events.

The Johnsons will be spinning tunes for everyone's enjoyment.

The American Legion recognizes children during the entire month of April, but finds ways to lift them up year-round.

Sue Johnson serves as the State Chair for Children and Youth with the Post #332 Legion Auxiliary.

Another program that is part of Children and Youth is called “Kids of the Deployed Are Heroes Too.”

The Johnsons, sons, riders, and the department president help with and contribute to summer and winter Special Olympics games in different ways. Legion members extend a helping hand through either monetary donations or snacks for the athletes. Every year, the games have a different theme.

Good Deed award winners are chosen from local youth who have made a true difference in their communities.

The sons of the Legion are one of a true family tree. Each has a Father or Grandfather who has served our country.

The Riders of the American Legion are the motorcycle hub. They donate money to help Veterans and support the food pantry by purchasing Christmas gifts for children who would not otherwise receive them.

Legionnaires, Sons of the Legion, the Riders, and the ladies' Auxiliary give back a million dollars per year to honor the legacy, helping kids go on to college who have lost a parent killed in action, or who are on active duty combat.

The Legion gives out yearly scholarships to deserving Hononegah High School seniors. Post #332 also awards one Educational scholarship and two medical scholarships each year. This year's winners are being selected and will be named next week.

Students may also participate in the Legion’s essay program about our Government. Recipients from Illinois have won Nationals twice.

Girls and Boys State programs fall under the umbrella of Americanism. These programs allow youth to have the experience of holding an office and to learn the process of how things work in levels of government and politics, and how laws are made, while working with others.

Students who participate might qualify to win a Legion Samsung award revolving around scholarships.

Anyone who has an immediate family member who has served our country is welcome to join the American Legion. Yearly dues are paid after approval is given. Eligible members also may qualify to receive emergency funds to help cover expenses.

Fundraisers are held to help make scholarships, donations, and overall support for veterans possible.

The ladies Auxiliary is hosting their fourth annual spring craft and vendor fair on Saturday, April 25, from 11 a.m. to 3 p.m., at the American Center (Legion). Shopper admission is $5 per person, children 12 and under enter for free. See what the stateline has to offer, with all proceeds being used to help local veterans and their families.