SPRINGFIELD  –  Need more proof that this winter storm is for real?  The Illinois National Guard has been ordered into the snow and ice to help deal with what is expected to be too many stranded drivers.

Illinois Governor Pat Quinn ordered 500 soldiers to head out on blizzard duty.  They'll be stationed at rest stops between I-70 and the Wisconsin border.  Illinois Adjutant General Bill Enyart says they'll be helping the State Police, but says drivers need to help themselves by staying home.

020111Enyart3                   :20                      …helping them."

The governor also ordered the state's emergency operations center to open.  I-DOT, the State Police, and the National Guard are also manning that.  Enyart says the troops will stay as long as needed, which could be through the weekend.