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OTTUMWA, IOWA -- Despite hot and humid conditions, many Ottumwans came out came out Saturday morning to remember a fallen son.

Staff Sergeant Joseph Hamski of Ottumwa was killed in Afghanistan last week, when enemy forces attacked his unit with an improvised explosive device. Hamski was a 2001 graduate of Ottumwa High School and briefly attended Iowa State before living out his dream of serving his country in the Air Force. He was with the 52nd Civil Engineer Squadron where he worked as an Explosive Ordinance Disposal Technician.

Ottumwa City Council Member Brian Morgan said Hamski was a great man.

"Everything I've heard of him, he was quite an amazing young man. He was vary proud of what he did and very modest. And I think that says a lot."

Seargent Hamski's funeral was held at the Saint Mary's Catholic Church. Afterward, his body was escorted north of town to the Ottumwa Cemetery where he was laid to rest.

Morgan said there is no greater way to show love for a country than sacrificing ones life.

"Us as Ottumwans and Americans need to remember every day people like Sergeant Hamski. I think all you can say to him is thank you. And to his family the same thing. I hope with the turnout it helps give some closure."

Residents say Hamski's legacy will never be forgotten.

"It shows all of Ottumwa's support for all of the soldiers." said an Ottumwa resident who went by the name David. "He's a hero. He's defending our people, our country. It just goes to show god takes the best. And he's getting his wings today that's for sure."

Hamski's family humbly requests that any donations be sent to the Fisher House Fund or the E-O-D Memorial Scholarship Fund at http://www.fisherhouse.org/ or http://www.eodmemorial.org/scholarship.html.