RUDYARD -- A community honors a fallen soldier and his courageous service to America.

Army Sergeant Christopher Griffin of Kincheloe in Chippewa County died in a gun battle on October 3rd defending a remote outpost near the Pakistan border.

Across the state and outside the Rudyard High School Gymnasium where a service was held for Griffin-- flags flew at half staff.

Griffin who graduated from Rudyard Area Schools in 2004, was awarded a bronze star and a purple heart. The medals were presented to his family yesterday.

Those who spoke during Wednesday's service say they'll never forget the sacrifice Griffin made.

The town of Rudyard is now in the process of re-naming a street and building a monument in honor of the fallen soldier.

Donations are being accepted by Rudyard area Schools for scholarships in Christopher Griffin's name.