Crowds Honor Ill. Soldier Killed in Afghanistan

Toppen deployed to Afghanistan in March

Dozens of cars and motorcycles decked with American flags took part in a procession to accompany the remains of an Illinois soldier killed in Afghanistan back to his hometown.

The body of Army Pfc. Aaron Toppen arrived Saturday at Chicago's Midway International Airport. The 19-year-old from Mokena was one of five American service members killed this month by a U.S. airstrike called in to help defend against a Taliban ambush.

The procession was making its way to Mokena, about 20 miles to the southwest of the airport. Crowds gathered at points along the route.

Visitation for Toppen is scheduled from 1-9 p.m. Monday at Parkview Christian Church in Orland Park.

Funeral services will follow on Tuesday at 10 a.m. at the church.

Toppen deployed to Afghanistan in March.

Copyright AP - Associated Press
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