VILLA RICA, Ga.,None — Hundreds of people lined the street in front of Ephesus Baptist Church Sunday. Their countless flags flew in honor of Lance Cpl. Scott Harper.
The 21-year-old Marine, who grew up nearby in Winston, was laid to rest after being killed in combat in Afghanistan.
"He was an awesome person and he will truly be missed," former schoolmate Jessica Mitchell told Channel 2's Carl Willis.
Mitchell attended Alexander High School with Harper. Harper graduated in 2008 and made friends and touched lives along the way.
Harper's friend Bardia Razzaghi said he was overwhelmed by the show of solidarity surrounding the church.
"I bet it makes things easier for his family knowing that he had all these people that cared about him," Razzaghi said.
Harper, who was nicknamed "Boots," died on Oct. 13 in Helmand Province, Afghanistan.
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Thursday, he returned home to a hero's welcome.
"We transported (the body) from Fulton County Airport on Thursday and the roads were lined and it was such a great showing," said Douglas County Sheriff Phil Miller. "I've never been so proud of Douglas County in all my life. But more than that, I'm proud of Lance Cpl. Harper who gave his life for this country."
Harper was assigned to the 1st Battalion, 6th Marine Regiment, 2nd Marine Division, II Marine Expeditionary Force at Camp Lejeune, N.C.
Fellow Marine Richard Fisher said he hoped the final salute will help the family heal.
"I love that the community has our backs because we go through a lot and it's hard to come home sometimes and no one cares, but there's a lot of support out there," Fisher said.
WSBTV
