Carbondale Reporter

In a May 23 Facebook post, Rep. Patrick Windhorst (R-Harrisburg) announced a June 6 ceremony for the renaming of a roadway to honor the memory of Sgt. Brian Romines.

“I was honored to partner with Sen. Dale Fowler (R-Harrisburg) in advancing HJR 42 through the House and Senate and thank my colleagues for their unanimous support. Although the bill memorializes the passing of a beloved son of Southern Illinois and fallen US service member, the renaming of Route 146 between Anna and Vienna as the Sergeant Brian Romines Memorial Highway is an important step we can take to honor the service and sacrifice of Sgt. Romines,” Windhorst posted.

The Illinois National Guard posted a tribute to Romines on its Facebook page.

"On June 6, 2005, Sgt. Brian Romines, 20, of Simpson, was killed in action when an improvised explosive device detonated near the vehicle he was travelling in near Baghdad, Iraq. Romines was assigned to 2nd Battalion, 123rd Field Artillery Regiment based in Milan, Illinois. Our thoughts are with his family and friends as we remember him today."

An official ceremony commemorating the renaming of the section of Illinois Route 146 between Anna and Vienna as the “Sergeant Brian Romines Memorial Highway," will take place June 6 at 3 p.m., at the Union County Fair Grandstand at Anna City Park, 185 Herman Wright Drive,  Anna.

The ceremony is coordinated by Windhorst, the City of Anna, Romines’ mother, Melinda Clary, and the Illinois National Guard.

“It was an honor and privilege to work with Rep. Patrick Windhorst on HJR42. Its passage ensures the recognition of one of America’s fallen heroes, Sgt. Brian Romines. His dedication and sacrifice for his country will never be forgotten,” Fowler said.