Jefferson County soldier's body returns home

KSDK -- The casket of Sgt. First Class Brian Woods arrived at Lambert-St. Louis International Airport shortly after 5 p.m. Wednesday, followed by a procession to his hometown in Jefferson County.

There were lots of tears and embraces as Woods' body arrived here at the airport. Family, friends and dozens of members of the Patriot Guard were here to meet the casket.

PHOTO GALLERY: The return home of Sgt. First Class Brian Woods

Woods was born in Catawissa and went to Northwest High School in Jefferson County. He enlisted in the Marines after graduation and then after the terror attacks of September 11, 2001, Woods joined the Army reserves.

His family said he was working as a sniper in Afghanistan, protecting several high powered dignitaries during his latest tour of duty. Woods was shot while on patrol on August 14. He died two days later in a German hospital.

Community members are expected to line the roads to Cedar Hill to show Woods and his family their appreciation.

Woods leaves behind a wife and two little girls.

Funeral services are set for this weekend. Visitation is Friday in Cedar Hill followed by the funeral Saturday at Northwest High School.