SPRINGFIELD – On Thursday, a resolution co-sponsored by State Representative Brad Stephens (R-Rosemont) honoring Richard Duchossois, the late owner of Arlington Park racetrack in Arlington Heights, was adopted in the House of Representatives.
“An iconic image that hung in Arlington Park is of the park’s grandstand after the 1985 fire saying: ‘QUIT? HELL NO!’” said Rep. Stephens. “Dick Duchossois embodied this spirit in his life. A decorated World War II veteran who went on to rebuild the beloved Arlington Park, Mr. D carried the spirit of persistence and leadership. His service to our nation in the Army and what he has given to the Chicagoland community are indelible marks on countless lives. It was an honor to be part of this resolution remembering a great Illinoisan and a great American.”
House Resolution 712 mourns the passing of Richard Duchossois and commends his service to the United States, Illinois, and the sport of horse racing. Richard Duchossois was born in 1921 in Chicago and joined the U.S. Army at 20 years old during World War II. He served in the war as a commander of a Tank Destroyer Company during five European campaigns, two of which were landing at Utah Beach in Normandy and leading a battalion in the Battle of the Bulge. He was awarded the Purple Heart and two Bronze Stars.
After his service and years of success in business, he assumed ownership of Arlington Park in 1983. His leadership led to the Arlington Million, the merger of Arlington Park with Churchill Downs Incorporated, and his induction to the National Museum of Racing and Hall of Fame. Richard Duchossois was also a philanthropist and was known affectionately as “Mr. D.” He passed away on January 28th, 2022.