Soldier Funeral

Friends and family had a chance to say goodbye to 21 year old Jonathan Barnes of Anderson. He died from a gernade attack while defending a children`s hospital in Iraq. The family is still trying to recover from the loss of their son and hero."I`d like em to think of him as a hero. just as he was because he did fight to the end. He never gave up on anything. So he`s truly a hero in our hearts, he always will be,"said Jim Barnes, Father of Jonathan. The funeral was held at the First Baptist church in Anderson. The burial was held at the New Bethal Cemetary near Anderson. He was laid to rest with full military honors. "When we get together we just cry and that`s all we can do. And mourn but now we know he`s gone and he`s where he`s at. We`re satisfied with that,"said Barnes. Barnes and two other soldiers were killed, and several more were injured during the gernade attack. Barnes was a member of the 4th Infantry Division out of Fort Hood Texas. The family says they are happy to recieve some closure to this terrible tragedy. "We`re just thankful it`s over with. And we finally finished everything and now we`re going to lay him to rest. Go on continue with him knowing that he`s with us and always will be with us." A fund has been set up for Jonathan`s three year old daughter Michelle. If you would like to make a donation, you can mail it to the Arvest McDonald County Bank, P.O. Box1018 Anderson,MO 64831. Reported By: Brad Douglas