The story and photos that accompany this stroy are deeply moving. Here's a description of the funeral:
The funeral, at St. John the Baptist Catholic Church, took place in a steady and heavy rain.
As mourners packed the inside, hundreds of Patriot Riders — the Harley-riding veterans who provide assistance at military funerals — were stationed outside, holding American flags for hours in the downpour.
Inside, the military pageantry of a full-honors funeral was evident. At the start of the funeral, the flag-covered, steel-gray casket was pushed slowly to the back of the church by two soldiers.
Six soldiers, three aside the casket, slowly, meticulously lifted and folded the flag into a triangle to later be presented to Thompson’s parents, Charlie and Barb Thompson. The casket was then moved back to the front of the church for the service.
During the service, military officials presented Thompson’s parents with medals he’d been awarded with posthumously — the president’s Bronze Star for meritorious service, the Purple Heart for injuries received the day he died, and the Army Commendation Medal.
As Thompson’s casket was loaded into the hearse, the Patriot Guard members lined the path and others, on motorcycles, led the processional of cars and three buses of people as they wound their way across Mankato to Calvary Cemetery.
Along the route, hundreds of people, many who’d stood in the rain for hours, held flags and signs of respect for Thompson. Dozens of people ringed the edge of the cemetery. Taps was played and a 21-gun salute sounded as Thompson was buried.
KEYC-TV has produced a moving report and video of the funeral. Yes, it was a downpour.
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