Governor Quinn Thanks Public Safety Officers for Successful NATO Summit

CHICAGO - May 22, 2012. Governor Pat Quinn today praised the Illinois State Police (ISP) for their successful support of the Chicago Police Department during the NATO Summit. After months of preparation, several state agencies contributed toward public safety efforts and transport of dignitaries during the Summit and coordinated closely with city and federal authorities. ISP, the Illinois National Guard (ILNG), the Illinois Department of Transportation (IDOT) and the Illinois Emergency Management Agency (IEMA) supported the Chicago Police Department and federal authorities to ensure the public and world dignitaries were protected.

"The men and women of the Illinois State Police and Illinois National Guard supported the Chicago Police Department and accomplished their mission courageously and professionally," Governor Quinn said. "I want to thank them for their service to ensure a safe and successful NATO Summit."

During the NATO Summit, more than 1,400 National Guard Soldiers and Airmen under the Illinois National Guard Adjutant General, Maj. Gen. William L. Enyart, and 990 active duty U.S. Service members assisted with security, transportation, aviation, airport operations, ceremonial support, explosive detection, and public affairs.

More than 700 officers from ISP's Field Operations were deployed for the two-day Summit, including Motorcade Escorts, Crowd Control, SWAT, STIC, ISP Investigators, and Air Operations. In addition, IEMA led state agencies on preparedness and coordination, and IDOT worked to keep the traveling public safe as it assisted with specific road closures for the Summit.

"I applaud our men and women who were on the ground throughout the NATO Summit to protect the public and our visitors," said ISP Director Hiram Grau. "They made all of us proud with their hard work and professionalism."