The last Sunday in September is Gold Star Mothers Day across the country.
Governor Pat Quinn and state officials paid tribute to those families.
Gold Star banners were presented to 12 mothers who have lost their children.
More than 170 members of Illinois Gold Star families who have lost relatives since 9-11 attended the ceremony.
"I think it's so important that we honor the families, Gold Star families, moms and dads who raised these great all-American heroes who understood that patriotism and devotion are some of the most enduring values that we have," Quinn said.
The governor returned from a mission to Brazil trying to increase trade with that country.
