Marines patiently waiting for the procession to arrive and the 21 gun salute.
photo by Scott Packard : US NAVY SEABEE
Thousands of people lined the streets, waving American flags, for the funeral procession for Staff Sgt. David Allen Wyatt.
The Celebration of Life service for Staff Sgt. Wyatt was held early Friday afternoon at Hixson United Methodist Church, 5301 Old Hixson Pike.
The service was conducted by Rev. Reed Shell with words of grace and a meditation. Scripture readings were by Chaplain Michael Taulbee, Lt., USN and included Psalm 23, Romans 8:31-35, 37-39.
The hymns sung were Down by the River to Pray, Eternal Father Strong to Save and Here I Am, Lord.
Staff Sgt. Wyatt's two brothers and two sisters spoke during the service, recalling much about him growing up. Remembrances were also given by Staff Sgt. Greg Clemons, friend and fellow Marine and Captain Chris Cotton, Staff Sgt. Wyatt’s commanding officer.
Special music was American Soldier by Toby Keith.
Those attending the service included Governor Bill Haslam, Senator Bob Corker, Senator Lamar Alexander and Congressman Chuck Fleischmann. There were also three senators from Staff Sgt. Wyatt's home state of Arkansas. He had visited Arkansas just two weeks ago.
Hundreds of motorcycles were in the motorcade procession to the National Cemetery.
Sheriff Eric Watson also attended and said, “I was pleased and honored that the Bradley County Sheriff’s Office was a part of the procession. I wanted Sergeant Wyatt’s family and the Southeast Tennessee area to know the members of my office are proud of his service to our nation. Sergeant Wyatt’s family is certainly foremost in our thoughts and certainly in our prayers.”