Two fire trucks hold up a massive American flag over I-93 in Stoneham to honor the body of Lawrence Marine Sgt. Johanny Rosario on Saturday. Photo: Shari Small/WBZ NewsRadio
STONEHAM, Mass. (WBZ NewsRadio) — The procession carrying Lawrence Marine Sgt. Johanny Rosario's body was honored all along the Northern Expressway on Saturday.
On several overpasses along the procession route from Logan Airport to Farrah Funeral Home in Lawrence, first responders draped flags and signs off of fire trucks and other equipment to show their support.
Rosario was among 13 service members killed in a suicide bombing attack at Kabul's international airport in the waning days of the U.S. evacuation from Afghanistan.
Two fire trucks from Cambridge and Winchester held up an enormous American flag over I-93 on Marble Street in Stoneham, as dozens of supporters waved flags of their own. Similar scenes were repeated over I-93 in at least two spots in Wilmington and in Woburn, where firefighters and other first responders waved Marine Corps and American flags from atop their trucks.
Cars pull over along I-93 North ahead of Rosario's procession. Photo: Shari Small/WBZ NewsRadio
On the highway itself, hundreds of drivers, if not a thousand or more, pulled over to let the procession pass. They spoke with WBZ's Shari Small.
"It's to honor somebody who gave their life for their country," said Glenn from Haverhill. "There's no greater sacrifice," he continued.
"I just thought I could take my time on my way home...and maybe salute her as she goes by," said Kristin from Lowell, who was returning from her shift working at Logan Airport.
Some of the drivers had planned to stop by the side of the highway, but some saw the procession coming and pulled over. Tim from Chelsea said the displays were "beautiful to see...I just wanted to show up for the fallen Marine from Lawrence, and just show her a good ways home," he said. Digital billboards above other area highways also paid tribute to Rosario.
A public wake will be held for Rosario on Tuesday in Lawrence at Veterans Memorial Stadium.
WBZ's Shari Small (@ShariSmallNews) reports from I-93 North.
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Written by Chaiel Schaffel