Funeral held for Illinois soldier slain at Fort Hood

JOLIET, Ill. (AP) -- A lone electric guitarist played a mournful rendition of "The Star-Spangled Banner" as funeral services began for a suburban Chicago man killed in the shooting rampage at Fort Hood.

Twenty-two-year-old Pfc. Michael Pearson of Bolingbrook was remembered Saturday as a courageous person, quiet observer and naturally talented musician who shared his love of guitar with all.

Hundreds gathered at a Joliet funeral home filled with flowers and where Pearson's casket sat draped by an American flag. A video screen flashed pictures of Pearson.

He was among 13 killed at the Texas Army base Nov. 5 when a fellow soldier opened fire. Army officials say Pearson was shot while waiting in line for a booster shot.

Also killed was 21-year-old Pvt. Francheska Velez of Chicago, whose services are pending.

(Copyright 2009 by The Associated Press. All Rights Reserved.)