State Senator Jil Tracy announced on Apr. 21 the passage of Senate Joint Resolution 29, which honors U.S. Army Specialist Anthony William “Tony” Gilman by designating a portion of Illinois Route 96 as the “Army Specialist Anthony William Gilman Highway.” The designated stretch runs from the City of Mozier to the Pike County line.
The resolution seeks to recognize SPC Gilman’s service and sacrifice during his military career. Tracy said, “Specialist Tony Gilman gave his life in service to our nation, and it is our duty to ensure his sacrifice is never forgotten.” She added, “This designation stands as a lasting tribute to a young man who loved his country and his community, and who made the ultimate sacrifice in defense of freedom.”
Gilman was born in Jerseyville on January 22, 1976, grew up in Calhoun County, and graduated from Calhoun High School in 1994. He was known for enjoying hunting and fishing throughout Calhoun and Pike Counties before enlisting in the United States Army in 1997. He attained the rank of Specialist before being killed on July 4, 1999 during a peacekeeping mission in Kosovo—the first American casualty of that operation.
Tracy said that naming this section of highway will help keep Gilman’s memory alive: “This memorial highway will serve as a visible reminder of SPC Gilman’s bravery and the cost of the freedoms we enjoy,” she said. Tracy also expressed gratitude for local efforts: “I am grateful to the Gilman family and the Calhoun County community for their efforts to honor his legacy.”
Tracy is a Republican who was elected to represent Illinois’ 50th Senate District in 2023 after replacing former state senator Steve McClure according to her official website.
Following approval by the House of Representatives, appropriate signage marking “Army Specialist Anthony William Gilman Highway” will be installed by the Illinois Department of Transportation.
