People gather to honor and say a final farewell to a soldier killed while serving in Afghanistan
By Greg Angel
Wednesday, November 04, 2009 at 5:11 p.m.
Read more: Local, Community, Military, Military, Soldier, Michigan, Upper Peninsula, U.P., Death, Afghanistan, Army, Community, Mourning, Funeral
SAULT STE. MARIE -- With an American flag held tightly in their hands, crowds of people lined the streets through Sault Ste. Marie Wednesday morning.
It's not the homecoming they had hoped for, but there is no loss of appreciation for the sacrifice made by Army Specialist Brandon Steffey.
"Very proud of him, I thank his family for raising a hero and thank him for his dedication to our country and our freedom," said Joy Anderson, just one spectator on hand to watch as a procession drove through town.
The 23-year-old Sault Ste. Marie native was killed October 25 while on active duty in Afghanistan. This was actually Steffey's second tour of duty overseas. He was assigned to the 178th Military Police Detachment, 89th Military Police Brigade, 111 Corps, Fort Hood, Texas. His K-9 partner was Maci.
In Sault Ste. Marie Wednesday, where Steffey grew up, a quiet, slow moving procession made its way through town, ending at Sault Area High School where a late afternoon funeral service was held.
Growing up, Steffey played in many sports and was said by friends to be a gentle giant with a contagious laugh. Polite and able to make the best of any situation.
Steffey leaves behind numerous loved ones including a wife and young daughter.
From those who knew him well, to those who did not, Steffey will be remembered simply as a hero.
"We're not going to let anybody be forgotten, they'll not be alone," said Nancy Gage, a member of the Region 7 Patriot Guard Riders.
"It's really hits home and what these young men and women are doing over there for us and the freedoms they're protecting to ensure all of our rights are protected," said Hon. Elizabeth Church as she paid her respects to Steffey Wednesday morning.
During his time in the service, Steffey received numerous awards including the Purple Heart and Bronze Star.
A scholarship has been set up through Sault Area High School and Career Center in memory of Steffey. To learn more call the high school at: 906-635-3839.
