MiddletownJournal.com

UNION TWP., Clermont County — Thousands are expected to line the streets to honor a fallen soldier for his long-awaited welcome home.

The horse-drawn caisson that will carry Army Staff Sgt. Keith "Matt" Maupin to his final resting place at the Gate of Heaven Cemetery is being provided by the Butler County Sheriff's Men of Honor Unit.

After the casket is off-loaded by the U.S. Army Honor Guard onto the caisson — an exact replica of the one used for presidents John F. Kennedy and Ronald Reagan — it will travel a half mile to the burial spot, said Commander Frank J. Smith.

Army Reserves Sgt. William H. Hasty, a Monroe resident, was chosen to be one of the honor guards. The 31-year-old will guard Maupin's casket at each location and be part of the procession.

His father, James Hasty, also of Monroe, said he's thankful that his son returned safely in September from a tour in Iraq.

"I think it's special for my son to do this for a special person who gave his life for us," James Hasty said.

The funeral procession will be escorted by the family, the U.S. Army Honor Guard and about 20 veterans of the Patriot Guard Riders. The procession will leave early today, April 26, from Lunken Airport in Cincinnati to the Union Twp. Civic Center for the visitation. A public funeral service is 1 to 2 p.m. Sunday at Great American Ball Park, followed by a private internment.

President Bush has asked Deputy Chief of Staff Joe Hagin to attend Sunday's services, according to White House officials.

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