Body of fallen Marine returns home to Milwaukee

MILWAUKEE (WITI) -- The body of Milwaukee Marine Lance Corporal Jeremiah Collins, Jr. was flown home on Wednesday, October 16th.

Collins, 19, died in early October while supporting combat operations in Helmand province, Afghanistan as an intelligence specialist. His death was listed by the Dept. of Defense as “non-hostile.”

On Wednesday, fellow Marines, Collins' family, members of different law enforcement agencies and fire departments and the Patriot Guard Riders stood ready to honor Collins' return home.

The 19-year-old Hamilton High School graduate's body processed to Krause Funeral Home in Milwaukee. The Patriot Guard Riders came at the family's request -- and they were many members strong standing in a flag line to honor and show respect to Lance Cpl. Collins.

Southeast Wisconsin Senior Ride Captain Jim Unruh says it's the right thing to do.

"There was no support in Vietnam. Excuse me. Never again. Never again. When these kids are out there defending us to live the lives that we live, we owe them everything and that’s why. Never again. They’re to be honored and respected," said Unruh.

Collins family did not want to talk to the media.

Collins' funeral is set for Saturday, October 19th at 11:30 a.m. at Krause Funeral Home, 9000 W. Capitol Dr. Visitation is set for Friday from 4 p.m. until 7 p.m. and then again on Saturday from 10 a.m. until the time of the service at 11:30 a.m. Services will conclude with full military honors.

Collins was assigned to Combat Logistics Regiment 2, 2nd Marine Logistics Group, II Marine Expeditionary Force, Camp Lejeune, North Carolina. His body has returned to the United States.

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