Mourners pack auditorium for John Glenn's life celebration

COLUMBUS, Ohio — Mourners who braved cold and icy roads are packing an Ohio State University auditorium ahead of a memorial service for space pioneer John Glenn as his funeral procession approaches the hall.

Barricades have been placed along the main road from the Statehouse to Mershon Auditorium to accommodate the procession of Glenn's hearse to the memorial service called "a celebration of life" for the former fighter pilot, astronaut and longtime Democratic U.S. senator from small-town Ohio.

Democratic Vice President Joe Biden is among those expected to take part in the Saturday afternoon service. A host of other dignitaries, including present and former governors, members of Ohio's congressional delegation and university leaders, were in attendance.

Glenn died Dec. 8 at age 95.