CHAMPAIGN, Ill. (WCIA) — WCIA and Operation Honor Guard’s Day of Giving raised more than $130,000 for American Legion posts around Central Illinois. Everything from uniforms to rifles and transportation is taken care of by donations from the public.

The mission of Operation Honor Guard keeps people coming back year after year.

“There’s a gentleman, he never says what his name is, and he comes up every year in an old Ford pickup truck and he gives us 10 $100 bills every year,” said Danville Honor Guard Coordinator Jeff Knapp. “And a lot of people give nice checks, nice donations: $200, $300, $400. And it just shows our community the support that they give to our Operation Honor Guard.”

And carrying on the legacy for those who can’t anymore.

“My dad always donated to this, and he passed away in 2023,” said longtime supporter Mary White. “So my sister and I continue to do it.”

Both veterans and civilians were donating.

“I support with the honor guard,” one donor said. “This is [a] very important function, and we really appreciate what they do here.”

“I come from a family full of veterans and I love what these guys do,” said another.

Edwin Cook, Champaign’s County’s Honor Guard captain said they need the support more than ever. The money will go towards new uniforms, transportation to funerals and more. Making these moving moments in time possible across the state.

“Just come down and experience it,” Cook said. “It’s not a monetary gain, it’s just for the appreciation of your fellow soldiers.”

“We appreciate it, and they appreciate what we do for the community,” Knapp said. “And it’s kind of a two-way door here that they support us, we support them and all we can.”

WCIA and Operation Honor Guard set a $125,000 goal, which was not only achieved, but surpassed.