OCS of Chicagoland

2026 High School Enlistee Recognition Ceremony
Congratulations to the class of 2026!
Good luck to you and your family
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On May 7, 2026, at Cantigny Park, Our Community Salutes Chicagoland proudly hosted its second annual enlistee recognition ceremony honoring the Class of 2026 high school seniors who have made the courageous decision to enlist in the Armed Forces and serve our country.
Celebrating America's 250th year, we were privileged to recognize 88 enlistees representing 52 schools who have committed to serving in the Army, Marines, Air Force, and Navy. More than 230 guests attended this meaningful evening celebrating service, leadership, and patriotism.
A heartfelt thank you to everyone in the community who attended and supported this special event. We extend our deepest gratitude to Cantigny for serving as our event sponsor and helping make this unforgettable evening possible.
Special thanks to our featured guest speaker, MG General Richard J. Hayes Jr. ARNG (RET) 39th Adjutant, whose inspiring words left a lasting impact on all in attendance.
We are also sincerely grateful to the recruiters who participated, the East Aurora NJROTC, the Navy Band Great Lakes Brass Quintet, our generous sponsors and donors, Blue Star Mothers, and our talented photographer, Oscar Kush, for helping make Our Community Salutes Chicagoland’s 2nd Annual Ceremony such a success.
📸 Please find downloadable photos from Our Community Salutes Chicagoland’s Ceremonies:
https://goatalert.pixieset.com/ourcommunitysalutes2026/
https://goatalert.pixieset.com/ourcommunitysaluteschicagoland/
FEIN: 39-4653359
Contact Information
- Anita Gaikis
- 630.399.6925
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