Shawn Hensel laid to rest

Hundreds of family and friends gathered on Saturday to remember a Logansport soldier who died in Iraq on August 14th. Corporal Shawn Hensel was described as a good husband, son, brother, friend and soldier. His wife Laci Hensel said she knows Shawn died doing what he loved to do.

"I know it was your place to be and you wanted to serve our great nation and protect our freedom," Laci Hensel said.

Laci read a letter to her husband at his funeral.

"I miss waking you up for work. Your parents always said it was hard to wake you up, but you always jumped up without hesitation and put on that uniform that I thought you looked so handsome in," Laci Hensel said.

Congressman Joe Donnelly said Shawn Hensel was loved by his family, by his community and by his country.

"Just 20 years old, Shawn lived a life worthy of admiration and respect," Donnelly said.

Major General David Huntoon read remarks from Hensel's Battalion Commander.

"Shawn Hensel was trusted and relied upon by everyone in his platoon. In turn, he was loyal and giving and dedicated to his fellow troops," Huntoon said.

Hensel was awarded a bronze star and purple heart after his death, which Huntoon presented to his family.

"Shawn's sacrifice for the freedom of others will not be forgotten by his country or by the United States Army," Huntoon said.

Hundreds of people from the community lined the streets of Logansport as Hensel's body was escorted to his final resting place, Ever-Rest Memorial Park Cemetery.

"I know you're here though. You'll always be here with us in our hearts, thoughts and prayers. You were, still are and always will be my best friend, my sole mate and my husband. You're my favorite hero. I love you so much and I know you're up there waiting for me and in due time, we'll be together again," Laci Hensel said.

Flags were lowered to half-staff in Logansport on Saturday in honor of Corporal Hensel.

From WLFI 18

Related Link:
Shawn D. Hensel dies 'of wounds during an enemy attack'