Hundreds mourn soldier killed in Iraq (William Thorne)

Orange City, Ia. — Army Pfc. William Thorne, who was killed Aug. 24 by a roadside bomb in Iraq, was described today as a God-fearing and brave man who honored his family and country to the end.

His widow, Corey, also a soldier who had been serving in Iraq, was at home on leave when Thorne died. His leave request to join her at home in Hospers had been denied.

Corey and Thorne’s extended family accepted three high military honors on the fallen soldier’s behalf — the Bronze Star, Purple Heart and the Good Conduct Medal. Several hundred people attended today's funeral at First Reformed Church in Orange City.

The Thornes had joined the military in part to save money to start a family. They had no children.

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