Yes, you could take the gap year to search for automatic full ride or full tuition schools start with Howard and the two U Alabama(s). Also consider Berea. Since you were admitted to UIUC, you are qualified for some thing of less prestigious with lots of scholarship. You also can try those “below $25,000 COA” schools see if they will give you some scholarship to make it more affordable.
Military should be your last resort. No, it does not make any sense to spend $200K for UG education, unless you want to be an investment banker in the US.