Hundreds attend Sgt. Griffin's funeral

TERRE HAUTE, Ind. (WTHI) - Nearly a thousand people, including family, friends and well-wishers attended the funeral of 29-year-old Sgt. Dale Griffin Wednesday, after he made the ultimate sacrifice in Afghanistan.

Griffin and six other soldiers were killed when an improvised explosive device went off near their vehicle. Griffin's body was even brought before President Barack Obama, in an historic moment. It was the first time that a fallen soldier had been brought before the media, since the President signed legislation allowing it.

The funeral was held at Sgt. Griffin's alma mater, Terre Haute South Vigo High School. Sgt. Griffin and his family were escorted by the Indiana State Police, Terre Haute Police and Fire Departments, the Indiana Patriot Guard and Marine Guard.

Griffin's parents and colleagues were among those who spoke at the funeral. Major General West present Griffin's parents with the Purple Heart and a bronze medal.

"I was just very appreciative to have known him in all the ways I could. I was glad to see that the ceremony had Dale as a symbol of all those who are fighting for what we believe in," Griffin's former teacher Judi Hutter said, following the funeral.

Following a full day of folks paying their respects to his family, Sgt. Griffin found his final resting place at Highland Lawn Cemetery.

It was a somber, but proud day, as one of the Wabash Valley's own came home one last time.