There are nearly 800,000 veterans currently living in Illinois, each with a unique story and experience during their service and as transition back into civilian life. Ahead of Veteran’s Day, we spoke with four of those Illinois veterans about why they served, what challenges they face, and misconceptions about veterans and their experiences.

The January 15th performance at Scott Air Force Base in St. Clair County may be the final one for Tops in Blue, a military performance troupe which has been targeted for cancellation by the U-S Air Force.

Richard Friemel served in the Air Force as an airplane mechanic during the Vietnam War and was exposed to Agent Orange which he believes caused his heart condition.