Mark Kelsey's funeral was held in the high school gymnasium, the casket lying under the "Wall of Champions" where his name is engraved for winning wrestling titles. The service began with the mournful wail of a bagpipe and a boom of thunder and took place to the drone of rain.

More than 300 Indiana firefighters turned out for a service during which Kelsey was posthumously awarded the

Governor's Medal of Valor. The regional firefighters were joined by three dozen Charleston and Ashley River department firefighters, and Charleston Mayor Joe Riley.

Riley told the family and townspeople Kelsey and the eight others would inspire the Lowcountry for generations.

"Your son gave his life courageously and heroically to save lives and protect our community," he said.

What an extraordinary drama being played out here in the Lowcountry--and beyond-- in the midst of this tragedy. Read it all.

Filed under: * South Carolina

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© 2012 Kendall S. Harmon. All rights reserved.

For original material from Titusonenine (such as articles and commentary by Dr. Harmon) permission to copy and distribute free of charge is granted, provided this notice, the logo, and the web site address are visible on all copies. For permission for use in for-profit publications, please email KSHarmon[at]mindspring[dot]com

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