IL HR0801

George N. Leighton, age 105, is requesting burial at Arlington National Cemetery as a World War II veteran who served as a logistics officer in the 93rd Infantry Division and earned a Bronze Star.

Arlington National Cemetery regulations require 20 years of active duty, prisoner of war status, or specific military decorations for burial eligibility, and Leighton does not meet these standard criteria but may qualify for a waiver from the Secretary of the Army, Secretary of Defense, or President.

The Illinois House of Representatives urges the federal government to grant Leighton's burial request in recognition of his distinguished service as a soldier, civil rights lawyer, and pioneering African American judge who served on multiple courts.

Senator Richard Durbin and the Veterans Caucus of the Chicago City Council are supporting efforts to obtain a waiver for Leighton's burial at Arlington National Cemetery.

The resolution directs copies be sent to Senator Durbin, the Secretary of the Army, the Secretary of Defense, and the President of the United States.