All American Ale: Brewing Honor for Knox County Veterans

Mark Thomas, Blake Benedict & Terry Bruns reveal how All American Ale has raised $12K+ to give every Knox County veteran free military honors. Tonight (Nov. 13) at 5:30 p.m., Reserve Artisan Ales in Galesburg releases the third annual All American Ale—a light, corn-based cream ale brewed exclusively to fund the Knox County Honor Guard. 🍺 In this 15-minute interview recorded live on Galesburg’s Morning News, you’ll hear: Mark Thomas (former Knox County Coroner & owner, Watson Thomas Funeral Home) share the origin story: why he refused to let grieving families pay a dime for military honors. Blake Benedict (owner/brewer, Reserve Artisan Ales) break down the recipe, local sourcing, and the zero-cost partnership that sends 100% of proceeds to the Honor Guard. Terry Bruns (Vietnam veteran & Honor Guard member) on how the money bought matching uniforms, better equipment—and ended donation requests forever. 🇺🇸🎖️ Impact so far: Over $12,000 raised in two years. 💰 Tonight’s goal: Another $5,000. 🎯 How you can help: Show up, grab a pint (or a 4-pack to-go), and shake hands with the veterans you’re supporting. Event: All American Ale Release Party When: TONIGHT – Thursday, Nov. 13, 5:30 p.m. 🕠 Where: Reserve Artisan Ales, Galesburg 📍 Beer stays on tap: 1-2 months or until it’s gone ⏳ Interested veterans: The Honor Guard needs younger members. Contact Mark Thomas or your local Amvets/Legion/VFW post. 📞 [caption id="attachment_689168" align="aligncenter" width="800"] L-R: Terry Bruns, Blake Benedict & Mark Thomas. (WGIL)[/caption]