Hundreds gathered Monday in Upton, Massachusetts, to pay their final respects to U.S. Army Cpl. John Dawson, a 22-year-old combat medic and native of the Whitinsville section of Northbridge.
Cpl. Dawson was shot and killed when an Afghan soldier opened fire on a group of Americans on April 8.
Friends, family, military members and politicians, including Massachusetts Gov. Charlie Baker, attended his funeral in Upton.
"John had an insatiable desire to serve his country," said his father, Michael Dawson. "He has a passion in his eyes when he spoke of the military."
Michael Dawson said his son chose to be a medic because he wanted to help people. He described Cpl. Dawson as selfless, dedicated and fun-loving.
"We are so proud to have had John as our son and thank him for the 22 best years of our lives," said Michael Dawson.
Yellow ribbons, American flags, and community members lined the procession route to the cemetery.
Massachusetts
The latest news from around the state
Many of those watching the procession said they did not know Dawson personally, but wanted to show support for his family.
"We're a small community and it's important to stay together," said Erin Lavalle, who brought her two young daughters to observe the procession.
