A memorial service for a local soldier killed in Afghanistan took place today, Saturday March 13.

Sgt. Ian Gelig, 25, of Stevenson Ranch, was killed in Kandahar, Afghanistan on March 1 when his patrol unit was hit by a vehicle-borne improvised explosive device.

Gelig’s family chose to have a private service at Blessed Kateri Catholic Church, however the community came out in droves to participate in the funeral procession.

The procession started at Blessed Kateri church just after 1:00 p.m. and moved down Copperhill to McBean Parkway.  It then drove the length of McBean Parkway through Gelig’s home community of Stevenson Ranch to Pico Canyon Road. After making a left on Pico Canyon Road, the procession entered the I-5 freeway at Lyons Avenue and continued to the grave site at San Fernando Mission Cemetery.

Councilman Bob Kellar had joined calls for the community to pay their respects.

“We are hoping the entire Santa Clarita Valley community will line the road to pay tribute to this fallen soldier who has given his life for his country,” he said in an interview earlier in the week.

Gelig who was promoted to the rank of Sergeant posthumously, received full military funeral honors including a 21 gun salute, the playing of taps, and a flag folding presentation.

The Patriot Guard Riders, a motorcycle group that watches over funerals of fallen American service members, also attended the service.

For a video tribute, click here.