Community mourns fallen soldier

SAN MARCOS, TX (KXAN) - The San Marcos community lined the streets Tuesday in rememberance of fallen soldier U.S. Captain Paul Pena. Pena, a native of San Marcos, was killed near Kandahar, Afghansitan by an improvised explosive device last week.

The local police stopped traffic to make way for the funeral procession. The procession started at the Randolph AFB in San Antonio and ended at the Pennington Funeral Home around 1:30 p.m. Tuesday. The procession was escorted by Bear Country, Schertz, Cibolo, Universal City, Comal County, New Braunfels, Seguin, Guadalupe County, Hays County and San Marcos law enforcement officers.  Also, several chapters of the Patriot Guard Riders , a national organization dedicated to honoring fallen soldiers, were present.

"It's not enough that we say we honor the sacrifice that our military people and their families make on our behalf," said San Marcos Police Chief Howard Williams.  "We have to show that we respect that sacrifice, and today was nothing more than that.  We just wanted to help escort one of our own home."
 

Among the crowd, fellow church members Rosie Smith, Tom Ballard, Doris Dieterit and former teacher Nancy Roberts stood on sidewalks holding flags to honor Pena. Pena attended First Christian Church in San Marcos where his mom plays the organ.

Former Scout Master B.J. Hageman Jr. remembered Pena as "a good kid." Hageman expressed his respect and remorse over the recent death. He and his son went on several camping trips to Big Bend and Philmont Scout Ranch with Pena in the late 90s.

San Marcos Baptist Academy teachers say Peña served as a role model years after he graduated.
He kept in contact with students, even exchanging letters with a few, offering encouragement.

"He was exceptional," said San Marcos Baptist Academy teacher Mattie Howard.  "He was the best of the best. He was the kind of young man that I hope my boys turn out to be.  He wonderful, and we will miss him. "

Pena attended the private boarding school, San Marcos Baptist Academy before enlisting.  A memorial service will be held at the academy on Jan. 28 at 7 p.m.