James Darby, president of the Chicago chapter of AVER

AVER presented their annual Happy Warrior awards to Leonard Lucio and AVER board member Jean Albright for their commitment to fighting for equal rights in the military. At right is the Leonard Matlovich plaque representation. Photo by Tracy Baim

Eric Ryerson and Susan Jones of the Lakeside Freedom Band played Echo Taps. Photo by Tracy Baim

Keynote speaker LSi Leo Luchio, U.S. Navy

Ed Zasadil presented the colors for the evening. Photo by Tracy Baim