Illinois National Guard Members Share Their Pledge: ‘I Stand with My Neighbors’ – Here’s Why It Matters

Illinois Guard Members Defy Deployment Orders Amid Controversy

In a bold statement, two members of the Illinois National Guard have said they will refuse federal orders to deploy to Chicago as part of a controversial immigration enforcement mission led by the Trump administration. Staff Sgt. Demi Palecek voiced her concern: “It’s disheartening to go against our community,” adding, “This is not what we signed up for.”

Both Palecek and Capt. Dylan Blaha highlighted rising tensions among their peers after the White House ordered 500 troops, including Illinois and Texas National Guard members, to assist federal immigration authorities in Chicago. Blaha stated, “I joined to protect the Constitution, but now I feel it’s under attack.”

A Risky Decision

Refusing a federal order can have severe consequences, including court-martial. Yet, when asked if she would comply with the deployment order, Palecek confidently replied, “Absolutely not. I stand with my community.” She cited historical precedents like Nazi Germany to stress the importance of civil disobedience in the face of unjust orders.

Recently, a federal judge paused the deployment, pending further rulings, which gives the guardsmen some temporary relief.

Military as Pawns

Both soldiers believe the military is being misused for political aims. Palecek stated, “They’re using us as pawns.” Blaha echoed this sentiment, saying Guard members aren’t trained to assist law enforcement or ICE operations. He expressed concern for the short-term nature of their orders, which do not qualify them for full benefits: “Most don’t want to be there. They’re scared.”

Concerns for Immigrant Service Members

Interestingly, about 200 green card holders serve in the Illinois National Guard. Many face fears of losing their legal status if they resist deployment. Palecek said, “They’re panicking, caught between supporting their community and their citizenship.”

U.S. law generally prohibits undocumented immigrants from serving in the armed forces, but for green card holders, military service can expedite the citizenship process under existing federal programs. However, applications for these programs have reportedly been delayed or denied recently.

Facing Retaliation

Palecek and Blaha have experienced backlash for speaking out. Blaha’s security clearance was suspended after he urged fellow soldiers to resist unlawful orders. Palecek has received threats for her activism, but both believe silence is not an option. “We’re trained to stand up for what we believe in,” Blaha stated.

A Broader Implication

Palecek reflected on her pride in serving, which has now turned to shame. She noted how deploying troops in U.S. cities sets a dangerous precedent. “If this continues, it becomes normalized,” she warned.

A recent CBS poll revealed that most Americans oppose deploying the National Guard in cities. Yet, a significant portion—42%—supports such measures, showing a divided public opinion on the issue.

Data from CBS News also indicated a decline in violent crime in Chicago, raising questions about the necessity of military intervention.

Blaha concluded, “What’s happening in Chicago could spread. We need to stand up against this narrative that relies on fear.” His sentiments were echoed by Palecek, who condemned the targeting of communities that have historically built the country.

As the situation unfolds, these guardsmen remain focused on standing up for their beliefs and their communities.

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Chicago, Illinois, Donald Trump, National Guard of the United States