Welcome to the U.S.-VRC 1st Illinois Battalion

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The United States Veteran Reserve Corps (U.S.-VRC). draws its heritage from the Civil War Veteran Reserve Corps component of the Army, which was tasked with light duties. In 1864, General Order No. 111 was issued allowing soldiers whose enlistments had expired, to join the VRC. should they wish to continue serving in uniform. During Reconstruction, the United States Congress reorganized the Army and incorporated the U.S. VRC as a component of the Army, via House Resolution 361 (1866).    

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Today, the US-VRC serves as a national Community Emergency Response Team (CERT).  Our soldiers are trained through FEMA to respond to emergency situations and natural disasters. Additional qualifications include the Military Emergency Management Specialist (MEMS) training through the State Guard Association of the United States (SGAUS).  

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1st Illinois began as a Detachment (C Detachment) of the 1st Indiana Battalion and falls under the Midwest Region Brigade HQ.  "Lincoln's Finest," as they are called, is headquartered at the General Jones Armory in Chicago. 1st Illinois Battalion (1IN-BN). Soldiers participate in monthly drills, as well as conduct Support Operations (SPOs) in local communities.

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Battalion priorities are:

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1. Constantly improve mission readiness of our force.

2. Strengthen solidarity and unity among our Community Emergency Response Teams (CERT), Military Emergency Management Specialists (MEMS), and Civilian partners.

3. Foster a team of highly-motivated patriots who are ready to serve.

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1IL-BN capabilities include search and rescue, points of distribution, honor guard services, incident command, and safety patrols for public events.