Illinois War of 1812 Bicentennial Commission

Gary Graves is a member of the 17th Illinois Territorial Rangers Company “A.”  Gary and his wife, Kim, reside in Carrier Mills, Illinois.  Gary is an administrative assistant at the Learning Alternative Branch School in Harrisburg and pastors Ledford Baptist Church.  He has been reenacting for four years.  Gary not only reenacts “the forgotten war” but also enjoys outdoor treks while portraying a 1750’s longhunter.  He feels that the War of 1812 was a crucial time in America’s history and believes not only that the soldiers but also the common civilians of the frontier should be paid homage for their sacrifice in the molding of the United States.