MOUNDSVILLE, W.Va. -- From Wheeling to Moundsville along state Route 2, American flags flew high as people gathered to show their gratitude to a fallen soldier.

Army Spc. Julian Berisford was killed in Afghanistan last week. The 25-year-old John Marshall High School graduate leaves behind a wife and an 11-month-old daughter, among many other loved ones.

He was scheduled to come home next week for a visit. Instead, mourners lined the street to show their respects as his body returned home Thursday.

"We're paying a little bit of tribute to a gentleman that gave all for this country," said Harold Poplawski, of Glen Dale, who is also a veteran. Through tears, Poplawski said, "The least we can do is tip our hat to a man like that."

When the procession arrived in Moundsville, Seventh Street fell silent. The hum of truck engines was the only sound in the air as a long line of law enforcement and fire departments made their way to the funeral home.

With an American flag in the doorway, employees at Moundsville's United Bank locked the doors and temporarily closed the office to step outside as the procession rolled past.

"We just wanted to support Julian and his family," said Terri Blake, a bank employee. "He gave his life fighting for us and the least we could do is be there for them."

Supporters came from home, work and school to honor the man who gave all he had for freedom, his family and his country.

"Seeing the faces of the family in the limo was the hardest part. It was very sad. I can't even imagine what they were feeling," said Jessica Lough.

Berisford's body arrived at the Wheeling-Ohio County Airport Thursday morning, accompanied by his wife. On the ground waiting were his baby daughter and a group of family and friends.

Berisford's cousin, Chad Dunham, said, "It's overwhelming the amount of people that's out for this. This is great. This is what we need to do. … I just can't believe that this happened, and I'm so proud of all of our military men that served previously and now. This is what they need. The families need the support."

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