Community Corner
Oak Forest Honors One of Its Own
Oak Forest native and U.S. Army Specialist Michael Kalis has returned home after a year of duty in Iraq—and the city of Oak Forest showed its appreciation in a big way Tuesday, July 26.
You can always go home again. Just ask U.S. Army Specialist Michael Kalis.
Kalis returned to his Oak Forest roots after his first tour of duty in Iraq. The city recognized his commitment and service to the country with a proclamation in his name during Tuesday's city council meeting.
He recently concluded his tour and is home on leave until Sunday, when he'll jet back to his base in Hawaii. He is currently stationed in Oahu, where he will serve the remainder of his time with the military.
Find out what's happening in Oak Forestwith free, real-time updates from Patch.
Kalis grew up in Oak Forest, attending elementary school in Oak Forest before graduating from Tinley Park High School in 2007. He is engaged to Sarah Fisher. The two plan to wed in September. He hopes to attend college to pursue a degree in criminal justice.
His parents Cindy and Roger, along with his two sisters, reside in the Fieldcrest neighborhood. All stood beside him as the city extended its gratitude.
Find out what's happening in Oak Forestwith free, real-time updates from Patch.
"This is honestly, really cool. I've never had anything like this before," Kalis said. "Today, everybody recognizing me, is really awesome.
"Everybody who was there, and sent me care packages, it was awesome. So I just want to say thank you to everybody."
Watch the video of the proclamation in Kalis' name by clicking on the video above the story.
Get more local news delivered straight to your inbox. Sign up for free Patch newsletters and alerts.
