Army Specialist Benjamin Moore was given a hero's farewell during a funeral service held at the Trinity United Methodist Church in Bordentown, N.J. where he was born and raised.
Moore, who was just 23, was killed by an IED in Afghanistan on January 12, 2011. It was just 10 days after he returned from spending the holidays at home.
During the service, Moore's cousin read from a letter Moore wrote a year ago.
"I signed up to defend my country from any enemy, foreign and domestic, and that's what I will do," read Jake Archer.
In fact, he paid the ultimate price.
Before the funeral began, mourners filed past the flag draped casket. Nearby the helmet Moore wore as Lieutenant with the Hope Hose Humane Volunteer Fire Company in Bordentown where he also served as an EMT.
"Ben was very dedicated fellow, energetic, he was always around, always willing to help people, and we're going to miss him," said Marc Mercantini.
Firefighters from around the region stood at attention in a show of respect for the fallen soldiers and in support of his parents and brother left behind.
Some in the crowd outside of the church knew Ben Moore. Others just wanted to be there.
"I came to honor and respect what he's done for our country and sacrificed for our country," said Bob Alexander.
"I did know Ben. It's just a sad, sad day. We just appreciate everything that he did for us, and for our country," said Dawn Consolloy.
Specialist Benjamin Moore's casket was carried from the church and lifted atop one of his company's fire trucks.
Finally in a long procession of the fire trucks, Moore was taken to his final resting place.
