July 2026
July 2026
Issue 163
ECC News and Important Information
- ECC will be closed on Fridays during the summer. May 22nd through August 7th.
- Summer classes ends August 6th! FALL classes will start on Monday, August 24, 2026.
- AUGUST 11, 2026- PAYMENT DUE DATE at ECC! You must make a payment plan, or submit our Veterans and Military Benefit Activation Form before 7:00PM to secure and keep the classes that you registered for Fall-2026.
Please Note:
You must complete the on-line enrollment verification directly to the VA to confirm that you are still enrolled in classes! If a student fails to verify their attendance for two consecutive months, then the VA will withhold their housing allowance until the verification has been completed. The VA contact number: 1-888-442-4551 or 1-888-GIBILL-1The
The United States of America will celebrate 250 years of Independence!
July 4th, 1776: The 13 American colonies throw off British rule as Philadelphia's Continental Congress announces a new nation made up of united states.
Today, Independence Day is celebrated and honored in many forms such as fireworks, BBQs and parades. It is an opportunity for Americans to express patriotism and love of country by reflecting on the sacrifices from those in the military.
BUT be mindful, loud noises can be harmful or trigger some emotions to some military Veterans!
July 28th, 2026 observes National Buffalo Soldiers Day
This holiday celebrates the contributions of some of the earliest African-American troops in the United States military.
These troops served on the Western frontier after the Civil War. They served in a variety of ways including security, law enforcement, and other frontier-specific activities.
In 1866, Congress passed legislation known as the Army Organization Act, which formalized the creation of six all-Black U.S. Cavalry and infantry units.
The term “Buffalo Soldier” transcends its origins and is considered a badge of honor today!
ARMY Chaplain Corps Anniversary
In 1775, The Continental Congress authorized the creation of an Army Chaplain Corps, providing one chaplain for each regiment. The Army Chaplains Corps offer soldiers spiritual guidance, counseling, advice, and mentoring in peace and wartime. To become an Army Chaplain, you must be 21 years of age.
Military Connected Observances and Events
- 4 July - Independence Day is celebrated and observed
- 25 July - National Hire A Veteran Day is recognized
- 27 July - National Korean War Veterans Armistice Day is observed
- 28 July - National Buffalo Soldiers Day is observed
- 29 July - Army Chaplain Corps Anniversary is celebrated
Join an Organizaion
Edgewater Veterans Club
Meets on the 1st Wednesday at 7 pm
Contact: Tom Johnson
Email: tcjohnson1968@sbcglobal.net
Elgin Post 57– American Legion
Contact: Jason Shanahan, Asst. Adjutant
Phone: (847) 741-2358
Email: alelginpost57@yahoo.com
American Legion Auxiliary District 11 Board
Contact: Rebecca Larsen
Phone: (224) 201-9263
Email: beckyleemo12@gmail.com
HINES Hospital
Contact: Matthew Santos
Phone: (708) 990-9723
Lee Barrett Memorial AMVETS Post 202 Elgin
Meets on the 1st Monday at the American Legion Hall
820 North Liberty Street
Elgin, IL 60120
VFW Post 1307 Elgin
Contact: Bob Getz
Phone: (630) 777-8574
VAC-Veterans Assistance Commission
Contact: Jake Zimmerman, Superintendent
Phone: (630) 232-3550
719 South Batavia Ave., Building A
Geneva, IL 60134
VITAL Outreach Program
Contact: Krystal L. Gilewski, LCSW
Phone: (708) 202-4893
Support Over Stigma
Contact: Zoeie Kreiner
Phone: (630) 488-7842
Print Page
Military Friendly School
Contact
Veteran Resource Center
Building F, Room F201
847-214-7531
veteranservices@elgin.edu
Hours
Monday to Thursday: 8 am to 7:00 pm
Friday: 8 am to 3:30 pm
Contact
Veteran Services Coordinator
Anitra King
Building F, Room F207
847-214-7531
aking@elgin.edu
Hours
Monday through Thursday: 9:30 am to 7:00 pm
Friday: 9:30 am to 4:00 pm
Contact
School Certifying Official (SCO)
Valeria Garza Cordero
Building B, Room B156
847-214-7520
vgarzacordero@elgin.edu
Hours
Monday through Friday: 8 am to 5 pm