Sgt Nicholas Lightner ~ Services

The Funeral Services for Sergeant Lightner will be at 1200 (noon) on Friday, March 30, 2007

The location will be at Bateman Funeral Home 915 Yaquina Heights Drive, Newport, OR 97365

Sgt Lightner was escorted to Newport, Oregon on Monday evening by the Patriot Guard Riders. It was late and dark and cold and rainy as they made their way through the Willamette Valley and across the Coast Range to Newport, Oregon - over 150 miles to travel. Along the route, they were greeting with people paying tribute to Nick, holding signs and waving flags. Fire trucks were out with flashing lights.

Once they reached Newport, and secured the escort to the funeral home, the Patriot Guard Riders were honored by the family. Nick's Aunt Deb had made arrangements for accomodations and a hot meal for the Patriot Guard Riders. In the midst of their grief, the family was concerned about the well-being of the people who came to honor Nick.

The family has suggested memorial donations in Nick's name to the Fisher House.

The Patriot Guard Riders will be honoring Nick at his services on Friday.

Ron (L2), one of Nick's friends, has left a very poignant comment about him:

Prior to serving his country as a soldier and a medic, Nick served the community of Newport as a firefighter. It was my honor this morning to join firefighters and medics from around Lincoln County to welcome Nick home. The Patriot Guard riders came through the darkness and the rain to lead a lengthy procession to Newport. Thank you all.

We fell in at the rear at Toledo's west junction and experienced this communities' pride in this young man - taken too early.The stories of Nick's efforts and my memories of his service in Newport will continue to motivate me to do MY best, to help others when they call, knowing that this is what Nick would do.

Bless you and God speed buddy. L2

Ron, thank you for your tribute to your friend.

Farewell, Nick, and Walk with God ~ you have touched so many in your short life.

To read more about Nick Lightner:

http://www.newportnewstimes.com/articles/2007/03/28/news/news02.txt