IL HR1505

Staff Sergeant Justus S. Bartelt of Polo died on July 16, 2010, in Helmand province, Afghanistan, while defending America's freedom.

Born July 4, 1983, in Dixon to Steve Bartelt and Jeannie Kyker; graduated from Polo High School in 2001 and joined the United States Marine Corps in June 2001.

Deployed to Afghanistan in support of Operation Iraqi Freedom (March-October 2005 and August 2008-March 2009) and Operation Enduring Freedom (February 2010).

Received multiple military honors including the Navy and Marine Corps Achievement Medal, Combat Action Ribbon, Marine Corps Good Conduct Medal, Iraq Campaign Medal, Afghanistan Campaign Medal, and Global War on Terrorism medals.

Illinois House of Representatives mourns his passing and honors his sacrifice; a copy of the resolution will be presented to his family.