Local Fallen Soldier Laid to Rest on Memorial Day

First Lieutenant Robert Seidel chose to fight for his country. He attended Catoctin High School then went on to West Point. There was a chilling silence as the sun beat down on hundreds of mourners. A procession packed the street in front of the Basilica of the National Shrine of St. Elizabeth Ann Seton. Members of the military carried the body of 23-year-old Seidel into Saint Josephs Cemetery. Seidel was killed, May 18th, while on patrol with the army in Iraq. In addition to the hundreds of family members and friends, those who did not know Seidel, also came to pay respects to the fallen soldier. "The family has got to be going through easily the worst moment of their lives, so I think by showing all our support that their not alone today, that maybe well do some good," said Jason Helton who attended the funeral. "On a day like today, its that much more important to be out here and God bless America," said Matthew Souter, who also attended the funeral. The Seidels now live in Gettysburg, but Robert grew up in Emmitsburg and considered that his home. He even requested to be buried there. Seidel spent nearly a year in Iraq. He was scheduled to return in July. Reported by Angela Bohon" Fire Destroys Home in Washington County,1148940751,1148940751,"[img align=left]http://www.nbc25.com/main/uploads/sabraham_1148941539_memorial-aptfire.gif[/img]HALFWAY, MD- Memorial Day turned tragic for a Washington County family after an afternoon blaze destroyed their home.