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Health & Fitness

Watch: Illinois Woman Named Veteran Champion of Change

U.S. Representative Randy Hultgren (IL-14) today recognized Erica Borggren, Director for Illinois’ Department of Veterans Affairs who was named a White House Women Veteran Champion of Change.

WATCH: http://youtu.be/fdOEDav9jXU 

Following are Rep. Hultgren’s prepared remarks:

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I rise today to recognize an inspiring leader from Illinois’ 14th District.

For her exemplary service, last month Erica Borggren was named one of only ten of the White House’s Women Veteran Champions of Change.

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Since August 2011, Erica has served as Director for Illinois’ Department of Veterans Affairs.

Under her leadership IDVA has launched, among other successful programs, the nationally acclaimed Illinois Joining Forces which connects veterans with more than 200 veteran-serving organizations.

She is a Rhodes Scholar, Truman Scholar, and was valedictorian at West Point.

Her military service spans from South Korea, as an Army Medical Service Corps Officer, to Iraq, as Commanding General David Petraeus’s trusted speechwriter.

General Petraeus calls her, “one of the most talented officers with whom I’ve ever served” and “exemplary in every respect.”

Erica’s strong leadership and record of excellence ensures a bright future for Illinois’ military service members and veterans.

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