Honoring the fallen

Servicemembers pay their respects

Servicemembers from all branches lined Peterson Boulevard Oct. 6 to pay their respects to a fallen Soldier returning to Colorado Springs. Hundreds of members from Team Pete lined the road as the procession passed, honoring the Soldier -- who was killed while supporting Operation Enduring Freedom -- and his family. (U.S. Air Force photo/Rob Bussard)

Servicemembers pay their respects

Published Oct. 12, 2010
By Tech. Sgt. Kevin Williams
Air Force Space Command Public Affairs

PETERSON AIR FORCE BASE, Colo. -- Servicemembers and civilians from Peterson Air Force Base came out in full force to honor a fallen Colorado Springs Soldier whose remains were returned to his family Oct. 6.

U.S. Army Sgt. Justin A. Officer, 26, was killed while supporting Operation Enduring Freedom in Afghanistan Sept. 29, when insurgents attacked his unit. Sergeant Officer served with the 1st Squadron, 75th Cavalry Regiment, 2nd Brigade Combat Team, 101st Airborne Division from Fort Campbell, Ky.

Soldiers, Sailors, Airmen and Marines lined Peterson Street as the hearse and family car made their way from the flightline to the off-base funeral home.

Servicemembers lined the street and stood at parade rest. As a show of respect for their fallen comrade, they came to attention and saluted as the hearse approached and held the salute until the hearse passed. Civilians placed their hands over their hearts.

General C. Robert Kehler, commander of Air Force Space Command, joined Admiral James Winnefeld, commander of North American Aerospace Defense Command and United States Northern Command to take part in the dignified transfer ceremony conducted by the Fort Carson honor guard.

Sergeant Officer's funeral was held in Colorado Springs Oct. 8.