History
Harold Washington had strong ties to veterans' affairs and served in the U.S. Army Air Corps during World War II
As a World War II veteran himself, former Chicago Mayor Harold Washington championed the creation of the Mayor's Office of Veterans Affairs to assist service members returning from conflicts such as Vietnam.
As mayor of Chicago and a lifelong politician, he advocated for veterans. He is also the namesake of the Veterans Services Center at Harold Washington College.
As Chicago welcomed Vietnam veterans home, many faced significant challenges in accessing employment and benefits. Washington's advocacy directly addressed these issues.
Established the Mayor's Office of Veterans Affairs: Washington founded this office to provide a centralized resource for veterans in the city.
Appointed a veteran director: He appointed Vietnam veteran William "Bill" Burke as the first director to ensure the office was led by someone with a deep understanding of the issues facing service members.
Harold Washington American Legion 1987 is the only post in the state of Illinois that families of veterans request in participating in funeral details
After the death of Mayor Washington Post 1987 was created in his honor to help continue the fight for advocacy work for the veteran community.
SERVING WITH HONOR, LEADING WITH PURPOSE
EMPOWERING THOSE WHO SERVED