A Letcher County family lays a marine to rest, just more than one week after his death while serving in Kuwait.
29-year-old Lance Corporal Chad Gilliam's family, friends, and fellow servicemen and women are keeping his memory alive ... and paying tribute to his sacrifice.

A salute goes out to a boy who dreamed of serving his country, and grew into a marine supporting Operation Iraqi Freedom.

Chris Damron, Lance Corporal Gilliam's brother-in-law, says, "He'd said that it was just something he wanted to do. All his life he wanted to be a marine."

Lance Corporal Gilliam's family says he was a natural leader who inspired others with his kindness.

Damron says, "All the marines seemed to really look up to Chad. He was a leader in the Marine Corps."

Family friend Kelsey Day says, "I'm so sorry for this family and I appreciate what their son did for us."

A sentiment echoed even by strangers who lined up to show their gratitude. The Letcher County courthouse temporarily closed in Gilliam's honor. Patriot Guard Riders came both to pay their respects, and offer support.

Patriot Guard Riders Kentucky State Captain Will Arnold says, "God's taking care of the soldier or marine right now. We're showing respect to them but we're here to support the family. It's a very trying time for them and we understand; a lot of us have family members serving."

The service and kind nature of this fallen marine continues to inspire others.

Damron says, "That's one of the biggest things i remember about him, just his compassion for everybody."

And his family is grateful for the community's compassion in their time of grief.

Lance Corporal Gilliam was laid to rest in the Haven of Rest Cemetery in Mayking.
Military officials confirm Gilliam died of a heart attack, but doctors are still investigating the circumstances.