State Rep. Dan Brady poses with members of the local Funeral Honor Guard. (Photo By Paul Morello/WJBC)

By Paul Morello

NORMAL - State Rep. Dan Brady gave an extra nod to the local Funeral Honor Guard Wednesday night.

Brady, who is also Funeral Director at Kibler Brady Ruestman Funeral Home, hosted a dinner at Alexander's Steak House for members of the Honor Guards from Bloomington American Legion Post 56, Normal American Legion Post 635 and VFW Post 454.

"We as funeral directors call out the individuals and they're there whether it's winter, spring, summer or fall. They're there to pay tribute to their fallen comrades and there is also such a deep appreciation from the families," he said.

The Honor Guard typically presents the United States flag to the deceased veteran's family and also does a gun salute.

Brady, with Funeral Director Tim Ruestman, presented the gathered Honor Guard members with an Illinois House Certificate thanking them for their service.

"From the funeral home side and from the state side, I feel like there's more thank you for a special group like this that we need to do, so that's what we're doing tonight," Brady said.

Paul Morello can be reached at paul@wjbc.com.