Springfield, IL…Legislation sponsored by State Representative David Leitch (R-Peoria) which allows the issuance of Distinguished Service Cross license plates to the award holder or the surviving spouse was signed into law recently.
Leitch introduced the bill on behalf of Jim Underwood, of Metamora. Underwood was awarded the Distinguished Service Cross for his heroism during a WWII engagement against the Japanese in the Philippines.
The new law adds Distinguished Service Cross license plates to the list of specialty plates offered by the state. Other specialty plates include those which honor Congressional Medal of Honor, Purple Heart, Bronze Star, Silver Star, and Gold Star recipients. The cost of the Distinguished Service Cross license plates would be $78 – the standard charge for a state plate.
According to Leitch, the Distinguished Service Cross is the second highest decoration in the United States Army after the Congressional Medal of Honor. The Distinguished Service Cross is awarded to soldiers that risk their lives during combat and demonstrate extraordinary heroism.
“This legislation is long over due,” said Leitch. “Those who have earned this medal deserve to be recognized for their sincere dedication to their duties and their true bravery during combat. These new license plates are just one way to honor them for their exceptional service to this country.”