"I see the town come together as one:" Staff Sergeant Kerry Kemp laid to rest in Port Washington



PORT WASHINGTON (WITI) -- A somber day in Port Washington as Staff Sergeant Kerry Kemp was remembered. Kemp was killed earlier this month in a helicopter crash off the Florida coast. On Saturday, March 28th, a procession took Kemp to his final resting place.

In Port Washington on Saturday, people couldn't help but look up as ropes were lowered to bind a city filled with mourning hearts -- and raise the American flag.

"I see the town come together as one. I see them realize and understand the true power and meaning of our military troops," said Army Veteran Jim Lindsey.

Staff Sergeant Kerry Kemp was killed during a training exercise on March 11th. Kemp and 10 others died when their Black Hawk helicopter crashed near Eglin Air Force Base.

Army Veteran Jim Lindsey was one of many service members who honored Kemp during services this weekend.

"This young man died during training to protect the people of Port Washington, the state of Wisconsin and the United States of America," said Lindsey.

Anyone who didn't bring a flag was given one.

"I feel honored and privileged to be an American citizen. I don't know this young man, but I feel it's important to respect and honor the men and women that serve our country," Peggy Savatski said.

Savatski says knowing Kemp or not has little bearing on the town's mission or saying "thank you" and "God speed." And that's why, whether honoring the flag or saying goodbye, the town is looking up.

Kemp was buried with full military honors at St. Mary's Cemetery.