“When we lose one of our brave heroes who died defending our freedoms, it impacts us all. Over the weekend, Southern Illinois lost a true patriot when Army Staff Sgt. Christopher A. Wilbur gave his life in support of Operation Freedom’s Sentinel in Afghanistan. Tracy's and my prayers go out to his wife and two small children after the tragic loss of this 36 year old. May God continue to bless those brave men and women who selflessly serve our country, both here and abroad.”