A Lebanon County solider, killed in a car accident, was remembered with full military honors Friday. Sgt. 1st Class Nelson Long, Jr., of Myerstown, was called a "true American hero." Hundreds gathered at Fort Indiantown Gap Cemetery to say goodbye to Long. Fellow soldiers even flew in from Iraq to be there to pay their respects.

         

related stories:

• Lebanon County Soldier Killed in Car Accident

Before the ceremony, abc27 spoke with Long parents, Nelson and Shirley. They grieve over their loss, but are touched by the response of friends, neighbors and the military.

Nelson Long Sr. explains, "It's just such an outpouring. I was not prepared for the outpouring of love and concern."

Nelson and Shirley believe that outpouring mirrors the love and concern their son showed for his country. Sgt. 1st Class Long recently completed a 12 month deployment in Iraq. While there, he pulled three fellow soldiers from a burning vehicle. He saved their lives and earned the Bronze Star of Valor.

"There's sometimes a military call. And it's so deep within you, you answer the call," says Long's father. "My son heard the call and answered it out of selfless love."

Last week, Long died, ironically, after he had returned home. He crashed his truck in Jackson Township, Lebanon County, and was pronounced dead at the scene. Though Long did not die in combat, looking through the sea of flags and faces at Fort Indiantown Gap, it was clear that Long died a hero.

Mom Shirley notes, "He loved his country. He loved his family and he had a good heart."

As witnessed through the teary eyes of soldiers, for even for the bravest in attendance Friday, the farewell was heartbreaking. The pride, though, was overwhelming.

Mom says, "I'm so proud. I don't think I could ever be prouder of anyone in my entire life."

"It was an honor to have been his father. I wished I could have had him longer," says Dad.