Honor guards get training at Libertyville Sports Complex

Rifles fired from behind the Libertyville Sports Complex on Thursday as emergency responders practiced gun salutes during training with the Elmhurst Honor Guard Academy.

The weeklong training involves 27 firefighters and police officers from around the country learning proper procedures and traditions for honor guards. Their work included drill and ceremony marching, funeral protocols and three-volley rifle salutes.

"We are teaching honor guard basics 101. Also, color guard and funeral procedures and traditions that need to be followed within the line-of-duty deaths for officers and firemen," instructor Javier Sanchez of the Glenview Police Department said after inspecting rifles and discussing stance during rifle salutes.

In the gym, firefighters practiced folding flags and learned proper etiquette for carrying caskets during funeral processions.

"This is very informative, and a lot of things were brought to our attention," said Lake County sheriff's deputy John Waterloo. "This is important for the fallen officers for both firemen and for law enforcement personnel and their families."