A special service for Marine Lance Cpl. Christopher Blake Rodgers, who was killed in action Sept. 1 while serving in Afghanistan, was held Saturday at Haisten McCullough Funeral Home.

After the sounds of the Star-Spangled Banner had faded and Haisten McCullough Manager D.J. Brewer had thanked a number of people who were essential in supporting the Rodgers family and the funeral home over the past two months, members of the Spalding High School JROTC raised the American flag along a flag pole dedicated to the fallen soldier.

The approximately 30-minute ceremony, which was also attended by Patriot Guard Riders and members of the Marine division in which Rodgers served, also included the dedication of a monument in his honor, placed near the main entrance of the funeral home.

“Today is a day of celebration, a day to celebrate the life of Blake Rodgers, a day to remember the ultimate sacrifice that Blake proudly and selflessly made in an effort to protect those who could not protect themselves and to protect those of us left at home, so that we may continue to enjoy the freedoms that we have today,” said Jane Rodgers, Blake’s mother. “I cannot think of a more fitting tribute to Blake’s sacrifice than this spectacular monument and flag that you see before you today — one that will stand strong and proud for generations to come.”

Jane Rodgers then said that her son will always be remembered and his presence will always be felt.

“Although Blake is not with us in the physical sense, I know that he will always be with us in our hearts and minds, just as I know that he is with us here today,” she said, adding that the monument has been established so that the community may have a place to come and honor its fallen hero and show its deep respect and gratitude for a job well-done. “Thank you, son. God bless you. Semper Fi.”