"Many of the original Minutemen put aside their plows and picked up their muskets to defend our freedom and, still today, many of Illinois' Citizen-Soldiers are also farmers," Maj. Gen. Richard J. Hayes, the Adjutant General of the Illinois National Guard, said in a statement. "This program is a way for citizens to recognize the service of men and women who have defended this nation and who also work the fields and orchards to feed families in Illinois and throughout the country."
The program is free for veterans, with an annual renewal. To be eligible, veterans must provide proof of service and a letter of support from their commanding officer. They also must have a 50 per cent or greater ownership in the operation.
The program can provide veterans with a career path once their service time is complete.
"This statewide collaboration is intended to assist our veterans pursuing a second career in agriculture," Agriculture Director Raymond Poe said in a statement. "There are great job opportunities in Illinois agriculture. If someone dreams of being a farmer, rancher, or producer, we want to help fulfil those dreams."
Instructions on how to apply for the program can be found on the Farmer Veteran Coalition website.