Mendon Posts Flags to Show Support of Fallen Soldier in Iraq

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Alex Cabrero Reporting People in Mendon, Utah showed their patriotism by honoring a fallen soldier.

This afternoon, the small Cache County town of Mendon remembered one of its own, even though he never lived there.

Thirty-one-year-old Brian Freeman lived in Temecula, California, but his mother and step-father live in Mendon.

When they heard he was killed in Iraq they went to California. In the meantime, their neighbors in Mendon, are setting up a big, emotional surprise for when they come home.

Fourteen year olds don't usually like to work hard on their Saturday, but today wasn't just any other Saturday.

Mendon Posts Flags to Show Support of Fallen Soldier in Iraq

Iraq seems so far away from this small, quiet community. Last week, though, the war hit home. The Snyder's, who live herein Mendon, lost their son in combat.

Neal Jackson: "Our heart broke when we heard the news."

Even though he lived in California, neighbors wanted to do something for them.

Neal Jackson, Mendon Resident: "So we got the idea if we could gather all these flags, and then line the street with them, so when they came back from California and see them, it'd be a show of our support."

Neal Jackson: "There's over 200 so far."

Bryant Chandler: "It's just a nice thing for them to have some flags for when they come home."

All afternoon, adults, teens, even those born before 9/11 did whatever they could to let their neighbors know they appreciate what their son did in service. Because when it comes to the war, whether you agree with it or not, it's just nice to know people still care.

Neal Jackson: "We wanted to show then that we really appreciate what their son did for our freedom."

Dallon Greer: "I didn't even know him personally, but I think it'll help the family get over this bump in the road."