The First Citizen Award committee has selected Joan Bortolon as the 62nd recipient of the Springfield area’s prestigious First Citizen Award. As board president of the Land of Lincoln Honor Flight, Bortolon has played an instrumental role in honoring local veterans by providing them with memorable, no-cost trips to Washington, D.C., to visit the memorials dedicated to their service and sacrifice.
Over the last 15 years, Bortolon has personally organized details of more than 70 Honor Flights for more than 60,000 central Illinois veterans and their families to take the trip, which many veterans say is one of the most memorable days of their lives.
“Joan’s exemplary service to our local veterans embodies the spirit of the First Citizen Award," said First Citizen board president Butch Elzea. "Volunteering countless hours in the service of others, especially thousands of veterans that have sacrificed so much, made her a deserving winner of this year’s award."
Since assuming leadership of the Honor Flight organization, Bortolon’s tireless work has ensured hundreds of veterans in Illinois receive the recognition they deserve. Under her guidance, the Honor Flight program has grown significantly, earning widespread appreciation from both the veterans it serves and central Illinois, including the greater Springfield area.
Bortolon was chosen from among two dozen nominees by a local selection committee and was awarded the First Citizen at a Nov. 13 ceremony held at Erin’s Pavilion at Southwind Park.
All nominees not selected this year will be considered for the following four years. To nominate someone for next year’s First Citizen, visit www.firstcitzenaward.org.
About The First Citizen Award
Established in 1963 by Springfield's Copley-owned newspapers, The First Citizen program was created to honor individuals whose service, outside of their paid employment, has significantly contributed to the betterment of the Springfield area. Each year, a citizen board selects a winner from public nominations, recognizing outstanding community service and a positive impact.
