On the cold gloomy morning of Monday, Nov. 15, an estimated 3,000 people came out in support of the Honeycutt Family so they could lay to rest their son, Lance Cpl. Terry Honeycutt, Jr. who succumbed to his wounds received in the Helmand province in Afghanistan. Honeycutt, Jr. died in a hospital in Germany on Oct. 27.
For the past two weeks, a protest group from Kansas had threatened to protest with its, ‘thou shalt not kill’ position that American soldiers are being killed because they fight for a nation of sinners. At the New Life Church where the funeral was held, however, only a few individuals were present and none entered the property much less threatened to disrupt the ceremony.
Sid Marcus gave a speech to the Patriot Guard Riders, Warrior Brotherhood and DC Ramblers who were there in support of the Honeycutt family. Phantom Riders were also there in support but did not ride with the procession.
When the family arrived at the church all the riders were flanking the entrance to the church parking lot, most held flags. Everything was very quiet except for one supporter who sang The National Anthem far off in the distance.
As the Honeycutt family arrived they expressed their thanks to the Riders and the supporters.
"We're here to honor and respect the Honeycutt family. We don't want the family disrespected in anyway," David Stowman a Rider with the procession stated.
Mike Miller a supporter said, "The Constitution is a contract, support all of it not just half of it."
"I didn't know what to expect. It’s overwhelming with so many people,” said Matt Laidley from Scared Heart Church. “I have 22 years in the Navy and am taking the time to support one of our fallen here today."
After a stirring ceremony, Lance Cpl. Honeycutt, Jr. was laid to rest at Arlington National Cemetery at 1 p.m. The Riders escorted the processional to the cemetery.
All the supporters had the same view point as Chuck Goodrich "The family should be able to lay their son to rest in peace."
Some pictures included herein are courtesy of Mary Atkins.
