Eugene (KMTR) – Today dozens gathered at the Eugene Airport to honor a soldier killed in Afghanistan.Sergeant Joshua Lengstorf’s body arrived from Delaware this afternoon. Snow on the east coast caused a delay in the flight – which was supposed to arrive at noon.
Just after 1:30 p.m. – his plane arrived.
An American flag covered the casket as it was slowly lowered and carefully place inside a waiting hearse.
Family and friends – including Lengstorf’s wife and child – watched from just a few feet away.
Members of the Patriot Guard lined up, waiting to honor and escort home the fallen hero.
“We need to let the public know that there are men and women out there that are giving their lives or put their lives on the line every day for our freedom. We're out here to make sure they know we appreciate it,” said William Vaughan, a Patriot Guard rider.
A public memorial will be held Saturday, January 16th at the Douglas County Fairgrounds. It starts at 11 a.m.