Robert Lynch laid to rest

Dozens paid their respects Wednesday to a Louisville Marine who died in Iraq. 20 year old Lance Corporal Robert Lynch -- an engineer equipment mechanic -- was killed in combat July 24th. As WAVE 3 Investigator Connie Leonard reports, those who knew and loved the Marine are remembering the way he served his family, friends and country.

At the Eastside Praise Church of God, a long line of loved ones and strangers mourned the death of Louisville Marine Lance Corporal Robert Lynch. But an emotion stronger than grief helped comfort the wounded hearts.

"I think more than anything right now, it's pride. I'm proud of my young brother and what he did," said Michael Lynch of his brother.

Michael Lynch shared much in common with his little brother Robby. The two were seperated just by 19 months. Michael, a National Guardsman, may have been most proud of the Marine tradition that honored his brother this day -- the one that directs a Marine to stand guard at Robby's flag draped coffin until his burial.

"I know that Robby's getting the best of everything thanks to the Marine Corps. He was one of theirs and they're taking care of him too," Michael said.

He also said that it is just what Robby would have wanted.

"I know a lot of people think that guy shouldn't have to stay in there all day and watch him, but that's there and I know the guards here are proud to do it. They're happy and honored -- it's an amazing thing," Michael Lynch said.

Robby brought out a serious side when it came to serving his country. But those who loved him remember the endless smile.

"He was a joker. He would do anything for a laugh and everybody loved him. I don't know anybody who didn't like him," said Michael. "He would crack a joke in the worst of moments just to get a laugh. I'm sure if he was here right now he'd be joking with everybody here trying to keep our spirits up and stuff."

Michael says his brother took that sense of humor to Iraq in the hopes of keeping up the spirits of his fellow Marines. His friends and teachers at Seneca High remember the guy who gave himself the nickname "Jax." The 2005 ROTC grad had dreams of going to Hollywood after his military service. He wanted to be a singer and brought in songs and poems he'd written. One was about his wish to help bring freedom to the Iraqi people.

"I don't plan on being a hero to the world -- I just want to try to help make it a better one," Lance Corporal Lynch wrote in his poem.

"Robby was a hero and honor and respect was the most prominent thing here I think," Michael said. "I would be glad to go the way he did."

From WAVE 3

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