Rock Island Today

State Representative Dan Swanson (R-Alpha) has been appointed as the chairperson of the Illinois House Veterans Affairs Committee for the 104th General Assembly. This appointment marks a significant role for Swanson, who has been actively involved in veteran affairs since he first took office in 2017.

“Supporting our veterans is a non-partisan issue,” stated Swanson. “It is an honor to lead this committee in the new General Assembly. I am appreciative to Speaker Welch, the Republicans and Democrats who serve on the committee, and all those who have made improving services and public policy for our veterans a priority. I look forward to getting to work in this spring session.”

Traditionally, committee chairs are members of the majority party; however, the Veterans’ Affairs Committee has previously seen Republican leadership from 1999 until 2013. Swanson follows in these footsteps after his predecessor, Rep. Don Moffitt, who chaired another key committee from 2007 until 2011.

Swanson's military career began when he enlisted in the Illinois Army National Guard in 1977. He served on active duty before attending Officer Candidate School at the Illinois Military Academy and being commissioned as a Second Lieutenant in 1986. His service continued until his retirement in 2001 after more than two decades on active duty and additional years with the National Guard.

In 2007, Swanson volunteered for recall to active duty with roles that included serving with the Multi-National Security Transition Command – Iraq and later as Deputy Director of Iraqi Army Force Generation. His efforts earned him commendations such as the Bronze Star and Combat Action Badge before returning to retirement in 2008.

He returned again to active duty in 2010 with assignments including Chief of Logistics Synchronization and Integration Cell for the Lead Materiel Integrator Mission at Rock Island Arsenal.

Since retiring from military service in 2013, Swanson has been dedicated to supporting veterans through his role as superintendent of the Henry County Veterans Assistance Commission. The commission provides financial aid and essential services such as transportation to medical facilities for veterans.

Residents of Illinois's 71st District can access further information about legislative activities and events through Rep. Swanson’s website at repswanson.com.