IDVA Director Dan Grant Receives Medal of Honor Veterans Leadership Award from Volunteers of America

CHICAGO - Illinois Department of Veterans' Affairs Director Dan Grant today received the 2010 Medal of Honor Award from the Volunteers of America Illinois at its 2nd Annual Veterans Leadership Breakfast.

"I am deeply appreciative and humbled to receive the Medal of Honor from Volunteers of America Illinois," Grant said. "Their record of service to Illinois Veterans is impressive so it very meaningful to be recognized by this great organization." 

Nancy Hughes Moyer, President and CEO of Volunteers of America Illinois, said Grant was selected for the Medal of Honor for his "heroic service to our country as a decorated combat soldier and the tremendous commitment shown to fellow Veterans in his subsequent role as civic leader and public servant."

"This is a unique award that has rarely been given in the past - because it specifically calls for a level of honor, personal courage and valor that is truly exceptional - and could only be found in the unique achievements of someone like Director Grant," Moyer said.

Grant, 30, was appointed director of the Illinois Department of Veterans' Affairs by Governor Pat Quinn in February 2009. He is a graduate of the United States Military Academy at West Point and a Veteran of the Iraqi War, where received two Army Commendation Medals and the Combat Action Badge for his service. Grant is also a captain in the Illinois National Guard where he serves as an instructor and trainer at Camp Lincoln.

Chicago Mayor Richard M. Daley and 27th Ward Alderman Walter Burnett were also honored at the event, which was held at the Union League Club of Chicago.