I typically enjoy seeing my hometown decked out in its patriotic finest. Fire Department volunteers place these flags along our main streets on the eve of every patriotic holiday and I look forward to it each and every time.

Today, though, the flags were out for a much different purpose. They were placed to honor a fallen soldier who is from our community. He was being escorted home by the Patriot Guard.

Sgt. Michael Decker was just 31. I didn’t know him but I’m guessing most of the people who lined the route from Columbus to Wellston also didn’t know him. Some saluted, others just waved their flags, many were teary eyed at the sight of this solemn procession. All were respectful, at least in my community.

It’s a terrible thing that brought us together today but it was heartwarming to see people putting aside their politics and their differences to do what is right and to honor this young man. In an age of such divisiveness, it is having a common cause that will bring us together again.

Sgt. Decker, may you rest in peace.