Spc. Pinnick Procession

LAWRENCEVILLE, Ill. (WTHI) - The Department of Defense says 2,000 Americans have now died in Operation Enduring Freedom.

One of them, Specialist Trevor Pinnick, came home to the Wabash Valley.

Thousands of people turned out to watch his procession through Lawrenceville and Vincennes to honor his sacrifice and support the family.

People began lining the streets of Lawrenceville early.

Young people and old taking a place along the roadside to honor the sacrifice of Specialist Trevor Pinnick.

"I want to support our fallen soldier," said early arrival Carla Davis of Bridgeport. "I come from a military family."

Pinnick died in an I.E.D. attack in Afghanistan.

A full procession of police, fire, and patriot guard guided the coach that carried him through his hometown, where the people on the route paid tribute with flags and hands over their hearts and simple silence.

"It brings tears to my eyes," said J.D. Robinson of Sumner. "Being a veteran, I'm very proud of the people of Lawrence County for what they've done."

The procession also rolled through Vincennes where more people were on hand to greet the fallen warrior and recognize his sacrifice.

"It's sad to think that a 20 year old gave up his life," said Ellen Harper of Vincennes. "That's what is sad. He had all of his future in front of him."

This part of the Wabash Valley is filled with history and heros and for the thousands who lined the streets of Lawrenceville and Vincennes Trevor Pinnick is the latest addition to that list.

"We should be proud to be Americans, the land of the free and of what our servicemen sacrifice and their families as well," said Kaye Peters of Vincennes.

So as these communities paused to show their support for Specialist Pinnick, what is ahead will be a long and painful goodbye from people filled with gratitude.