Funeral for Marine killed in Afghanistan

Speedway, Ind. - Hoosiers turned out Saturday to remember an Indiana marine killed in the line of duty.  You may recall, Sgt. John Rankel was recently killed during Operation Enduring Freedom. But Saturday was a there tribute to him.

A long procession outside Speedway High School made its way to Crown Hill Cemetery... all for a fallen Marine.

"I'm out here to show support for Sgt. Rankel and his family!" said Army veteran, Kyle Edie.

Sgt. John K. Rankel of Speedway was a 23-year-old, killed June 7th on duty in Afghanistan. Governor Mitch Daniels ordered the flags to fly at half staff.

Rankel was born in Anderson, but was a Speedway High School grad.

"Still Americans left! Still people who care about the country, what it stands for, our founders," said Ben Drexler who came out to show his support for Sgt. Rankel.

Yes, the visitation, funeral and procession were for Rankel, but it was also for true, American believers, Patriots is all genders, roles and sizes, including military wives.

"It's worthwhile! The pain and the sacrifice for a nation that appreciates what they are doing! So, it makes it much more worthwhile. Not any easier, but it means something to the nation at least," said Caitlin Boyles who is a military wife.

And those bent on challenging military protesters.

"It's motivational to not only me but the whole country to see people actually supporting our troops instead of putting up signs that speak against them and speak against what they're standing for and what they're fighting for," said Brett Troup who supports our troops.

Sgt. Rankel was shot and killed while on foot patrol. While at Speedway he played football, baseball and basketball. He leaves behind a sad, but proud family.