Bells rang out Tuesday from St. Patrick's church in Port Henry New York, as six people carried a casket, draped in an American flag, holding the body of Staff Sgt. Dain Venne.
The North Country native was 1 of 3 New Yorkers killed last week in Afghanistan by a roadside bomb.
Those who served with Venne say he was one of the best.
"He was a soldier's soldier, that's why people looked up to him," said Army Captain Daniel McCarthy.
McCarthy couldn't believe his eyes Tuesday as he drove into the small Upstate New York community.
"I was just blown away coming down the main strip and seeing the flag out front and seeing every uniform you could imagine," said McCarthy.
From the funeral home to the church and then to a Mineville cemetery, hundreds paid tribute.
The 2001 Moriah Central School graduate enlisted in the army after 9/11.
It's that selfless attitude that tugged on the hearts of many as they tried to bring comfort to those who Venne has left behind.
"I think it's a great way to show respect and to that the family knows that the town comes together and cares," said Beth Thompson.
And with many organizations represented, it was apparent, the thoughts and prayers extended beyond Essex County to honor a man who paid the ultimate sacrifice.
What makes this story even more difficult?
Venne was expected to return home from Afghanistan this past weekend.
We were also told members from the Westboro Baptist Church had plans to protest Tuesday's funeral.
But they did not show up.
