Lance Corporal Kevin Preach
February 18, 2009
Family, friends and community gathered earlier today at Central Square Congregational Church in Bridgewater and the Massachusetts National Cemetery in Bourne. From the funeral home to downtown Bridgewater and the Church, the motorcade passed thousands who were waving flags and holding handmade signs celebrating the life of Kevin. As the procession entered downtown, it passed under a large American flag being held aloft by Fire Ladder Trucks from Bridgewater and Raynham. The procession entered the Church, which was also adorned with a large American flag on the side.
Rev. Kristy Coburn, a member of the reserves herself, offered opening words & prayer. Kevin's brother, Private Daniel Preach, USMC and Kevin’s girlfriend Brianna Kelliher both spoke of their memories of Kevin. They each spoke of how Kevin truly represented Semper Fi (or simper fidelis) and was always faithful. For those wishing to remember Kevin, donations can be made to the Injured Marine Semper Fi Fund (www.semperfifund.com) at 825 College Blvd, Suite 102, PMB 609, Oceanside CA 92057.
After the ceremony in Church, the motorcade (perhaps a couple miles long) proceeded south on Route 18, where thousands more waved flags and saluted Kevin and his service to the Country. Traveling down 495 and 25 towards the Cape, overpasses often had fire, police and community also showing their support; some on the side of the highway stood outside their cars to salute Kevin.
The burial service in Bourne had more individuals with flags, including many members of the Patriot Guard Riders (www.patriotguard.org) who created a wall of American flags across from the Church, and had then traveled to the Cemetery. Truly a beautiful site to see so many American flags again adjacent to the services.
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Joseph Gillis Jr.
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