Honoring a hero. Saturday the body of Cpl. Bryant Luxmore of New Windsor returned home. The 25-year old was killed by enemy fire while on patrol in Afghanistan last weekend. For his return hundreds of people in several small communities gathered to tribute a life lost too soon.
A big heart, a quiet smile, a leader and a friend. "We're going to miss him and we're forever grateful for his sacrifice," said high school friend Ty Schurr.
A hero comes home to a homecoming unlike anyone had hoped for. "This is definitely the class reunion we never wanted to have," said Ashley Cobert, another former classmate.
But among the thousands of flags, stretching across miles through Mercer County, bike after bike and car after car the procession rolled through streets crowded with even more lives B.J. Luxmore touched one way or another.
"In a small community when you lose one you've lost a lot of that community," said Eric Swanson, one of dozens of Patriot Guard Riders who led the procession.
There were hugs, tears, and many salutes sending a message to the soldier and his loved ones without even saying the words. "Show the family that all these people are here to support them and say thank you. Not only for what B.J. gave but what they gave," added Cobert.
Along the way even more joined in to do what they could to give tribute to someone who always gave his all. "I knew he would do everything he could do to make our country safe. His son should be proud, his wife should be proud and his parents ultimately," said Tammy Crippen a teacher at Sherrard High School.
The ultimate sacrifice. For that, he will be remembered. That and so much more. "I think about high school football, going into a huddle, looking up and seeing his face. The dimples on his cheeks and a half smirk smile. The guy that could command a group of guys and lead a team," added Schurr. Many knowing that's exactly how he left.
"I can see him going out there and doing his job well," said Cobert. And for that they give thanks and say welcome home soldier, welcome home.
Luxmore was a 2005 graduate of Sherrard. The visitation and funeral will be at the high school. According to the funeral home the visitation is set for Monday 3-8 p.m. The funeral will be Tuesday morning at 10:30.
