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thedrifter
03-29-09, 04:29 AM
Final goodbye to Marine killed in Afghanistan

By Joe Roetz
Saturday, March 28, 2009 at 6:06 p.m.


ROME -- It was the last chance to say goodbye to a hometown hero. Hundreds of onlookers stopped to pay their respects to Lance Corporal Daniel Geary as his motorcade snaked through the city of Rome. Many never met the 22-year-old Marine, but have their own reasons to show their support. Theresa Mishlanie, of Rome, says, "It's important to pay tribute to someone who's paid the ultimate sacrifice for their country. Especially because it's so local."



Geary began his first tour of duty in Afghanistan in October. He previously served in Iraq. Geary was due home this may, which is when he planned to marry his fiancé of more than a year. Jane Marie Mishlanie stopped on the side of the road for today's services. She says, "I lost a brother and it's very sad. It's nice to know, hear and just see smiling faces and concerning eyes and knowing we are here for them."





Dozens of Patriot Guard riders came from miles away to guide the fallen marine to a mass at Saint Peter's Roman Catholic Church. Overheard, an American flag was suspended in the air. Onlookers say their thoughts are with the family of a son who made the ultimate sacrifice. Theresa Mishlanie says, "I couldn't even imagine. Hopefully they'll get some comfort from seeing all of this community support. It's tragic."


Ellie