Friends, family and neighbors gathered to say goodbye to Specialist Wertish ...News 12's Nathan Harrington was at the funeral in nearby Bird Island and has more on how an American hero is being remembered.Minnesota honors one of its fallen heroes today. The funeral for SPC James D. Wertish was held here in Bird Island at St. Mary's Church. Friends and family, those that knew him and even those that didn't came by to pay their final respects.Capt. Paul Rickert says, "To see the community support in recognition of what we do and especially for those of us who've given the ultimate sacrifice it is great to see the number of people who recognize that sacrifice to come out and pay their respects."The towns of Olivia and Bird Island both claim Wertish as a native son.And when news hit home of James' death in Iraq, many found it hard to believe.Robert Erickson says, "I was shocked. I said I never thought that I'd ever live in this day in age to have kids come home from war that were killed you know. But it happens and we have to support the family and as you can see that's what they did."Residents from both towns and the surrounding area filled St. Mary's Church to show their support.Outside the Patriot Guard rode in by the dozens to pledge their allegiance to a fallen comrade.Chris Dunsmore says, "We may not have known James, but he was still family. A lot of us consider him our brother."Dunsmore, from nearby Sacred Heart, knows how war affects family and friends in a small community.He says it takes an event like this for people to truly appreciate the sacrifices of our armed services.Chris Dunsmore says, "This brings the war from 6000 miles away to less than a mile away, this brings it home. They just can't identify with it until a day like today. It puts it in their living room."This day serves as a day of closure for the family and close friends of James Wertish.But, It also serves as a day to pass on a message to loved ones.Robert Erickson says, "Love your kids. Say I hope you come home."A message to be taken to heart in honor of a fallen hero.In Bird Island, Nathan Harrington, News 12.