ST. LOUIS, MO (KTVI-FOX2now.com)—
The body of fallen soldier James Ide returned to the St. Louis, Missouri area Wednesday morning. He received a full military escort, including one from Patriot Guard motorcyclists. It was an emotional scene along Interstate 70 near St. Louis Lambert International Airport as friends, family, and even strangers came out to honor a Missouri soldier killed in Afghanistan. More than 70 Patriot Guard motorcyclists rode for a fallen service man, again and without question."Especially during a workweek," says Robert Smith, of the Patriot Guard. "We are really happy with the turnout. This is pretty much typical for a killed-in-action."
U.S. Army Staff Sergeant James Ide was killed last month while on-duty in Afghanistan. He leaves behind a young family, a host of friends, and scores of strangers appreciative of his ultimate sacrifice for his country.
"The main thing for me," said Smith. "Is just seeing all these Patriot Guard riders out here giving up their time, at their own expense, just to pay homage to honor this soldier."
In a way, Ide's family also made that ultimate sacrifice. Those who lined the streets know that. Smith wanted to let the family know how much respect the St. Louis area has for them. Fire departments and private citizens lined overpasses over Interstate 70. They waved flags and wiped tears for a young man they never met.
Smith said the turnout is typical for a service man or woman killed in action. He said seeing all this support for a military family left behind, but not alone, is bittersweet, "It's wonderful to see all those people out paying honor to our fallen warrior. It's so sad that you can't hold back the tears."
Special thanks to Videographer Ray Brodzinsky and Chief Photographer Steve Meyers for their contributions to this story.
