Supporting Spc. Pinnick

VINCENNES, IND. (WTHI) -       The death of Specialist Trevor Pinnick in Afghanistan has people in both his hometown of Lawrenceville and neighboring Vincennes stepping forward and giving gratitude for his sacrifice.

     The communities and businesses are going way beyond dropping their flags to honor both the fallen soldier and his family.

     Lawrenceville is putting together its plans to honor Specialist Trevor Pinnick this weekend at the high school, but that isn't the only place where the fallen soldier is being remembered.

     Across the river in Vincennes, flags are also at half staff, and Don Fredrick at Duesterburg-Fredrick Funeral Home says the sad honor of handling the arrangements has brought out tremendous support for Specialist Pinnick and his family.

     "When a tragedy like this occurs it brings out the best in everybody." said Fredrick.

     The funeral home and some of the associated businesses are taking care of most of the burial expenses and the Vincennes Cemetary is donating a plot.

     Those involved say what is going on is about neither show or charity.

     It is about something that's much greater.

     "I think the community realizes this young man gave the ultimate, his life for our freedom," said Vincennes Mayor Joe Yochum.

     "It's gratitude to the extent that we've had a young man who has fallen," added Fredrick.

     A young man who died in a far away place, defending the people of his country and community, and who deserves even more.

     "No matter what we do to honor him it is nothing in comparison to the sacrifice he made for us," said Fredrick.

     A sentiment the 2 Wabash Valley communities will show as they grieve for a fallen soldier.

     The community of Lawrenceville wants to have flags placed along the route Specialist Pinnick will travel on Saturday.

     There will be a meeting Friday at 4:30 Central Time at the Lawrenceville High School for volunteers to help put the more than 2,000 flags in place.