2025 Hometown Heroes Class 'Represents Best Of Glenview'

GLENVIEW, IL — Earlier this month, 10 military service members were honored by the Village of Glenview as part of the "Hometown Heroes" program.

"Last year, we launched this program to honor the service members who live or once lived here in Glenview. We have been overwhelmed with the enthusiasm of the community and the nominators," Village President Mike Jenny said at the May 6 Glenview Village Board meeting.

The program is the result of a partnership between the Village and the Joseph M. Sesterhenn American Legion Post 166. According to officials, the initiative pays tribute to U.S. military service members — past and present — who have lived in Glenview or have a strong local connection. Each year, 10 honorees are selected from public nominations by Post 166 and are recognized with individual banners displayed along Glenview Road.

"We are proud to continue this partnership with the American Legion, which makes this program possible," Jenny said.

The 2025 class features service members representing the United States Army, Navy, Air Force and Marines. These 10 individuals have served deployments both stateside and abroad, with service dates ranging from World War II to present-day deployments. Two honorees are currently serving on active duty.

2025 Village of Glenview Hometown Heroes

• Rev. Robert J. Borré, Major, U.S. Air Force/Army – A military chaplain who provided spiritual support to service members across two branches.
• Patrick Burke, Lieutenant Colonel, U.S. Air Force – A career officer currently on active duty with assignments at both the Pentagon and Andrews Air Force Base.
• Jack D. Chavez Sr., Chief Warrant Officer 4, U.S. Air Force/Army – A former air evacuation medic with years of dedicated service.
• Louis Deli, Specialist, U.S. Army – Recognized for his commitment and contributions in the field.
• Mike Korman, Master Chief Petty Officer, U.S. Navy – One of the Navy’s highest enlisted ranks, known for leadership and mentorship.
• James H. Mukoyama Jr., Major General, U.S. Army – A Glenview resident and one of the highest-ranking Japanese-American officers in Army history.
• John Rine, Staff Sergeant, U.S. Marine Corps – Honored for his discipline and service in the Corps.
• Billy W. Santos, First Lieutenant, U.S. Army Air Corps – A World War II-era pilot who flew missions as a bombardier and navigator during critical battles and campaigns.
• Albert R. Valiaveedu, Lieutenant, U.S. Navy – A 2015 Glenbrook South graduate currently on active duty.

To read about each of these honorees, learn more about the Hometown Heroes and to nominate a hero, visit here.

"Their dedication speaks to the enduring strength and commitment of our community's veterans," Stephen Gerth, commander of American Legion Post 166, said. "To each honoree, you represent the best of Glenview."