Home to wild mustangs and burros, Operation Wild Horse pairs these magnificant creatures with U.S. military veterans, active duty service members, and their families for a unique bonding experience. 

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.

Lincoln’s Challenge Academy Director Peter Thomas worries that Memorial Day has lost some of its meaning. At a ceremony on Friday, Thomas recalled Memorial Day as a holiday when stores closed and Americans gathered.

The Chez Family Foundation Center for Wounded Veterans will help veterans with disabilities get college degrees and make the transition from military to civilian life.