Randy Timmons, the local Illinois Department of Natural Resources forester, arranged for the donation of the oaks. The Soldiers and civilians took time to help beautify a lake at MTC to improve its overall ecosystem.
(Left to right) Master Sgt. Eric Luttrell of Dwight, retired Sgt. 1st Class Jerry Lofft and Spc. Alicia Gutierrez of Streator, work together to plant White Oaks April 24 at Marseilles Training Center.
Photo submitted by Jason McNamara
The MTC staff planted them and then covered the seedlings using tree shelters which create a natural greenhouse effect in which the seedlings can grow and then covered them with mesh covers to protect them from different bird species.
Photo submitted by Jason McNamara (Left to right) Master Sgt. Eric Luttrell of Dwight, retired Sgt. 1st Class Jerry Lofft and Spc. Alicia Gutierrez of Streator, work together to plant White Oaks April 24 at Marseilles Training Center. A group of eight Illinois National Guard Soldiers and civilians came together to plant nearly 100 white oaks.