Paris, TX – The mood was somber, but the message was one of courage and hope, as thousands gathered to remember fallen soldier Sergeant Jay M. Hoskins.

To his friends and family, Hoskins was more than just a marine.

"He was a man's man, he really was, and I think all men know what I'm talking about when I say that,” said his father Danny Hoskins.

He was a son, a father, a leader and a hometown hero in Paris. Those who knew Hoskins describe him as a family man, passionate about his country and a caring person.

"Jay's not so concerned about himself as he is about making sure that those that are with him come home safe... What character... What integrity... What a great man," said Chris Kelly of Gospel Lighthouse. Kelly was officiating the service.

Joe Clayton was a family friend of the Hoskins and one of his teachers at North Lamar High School in Paris. He remembers the marine as an all-American kid.

"He was a good football player, a good Christian boy, and everybody liked him," said Clayton.

The 24 year old marine died in Afghanistan when his vehicle was hit by a roadside bomb on August 6, 2009. He received the Purple Heart among many other medals and recognitions during his time in the service.

"He was like a bull dog, he refused to quit, that made him what he was, that's what separated him from the rest,” said his father Danny.

And it was his sacrifice that brought thousands out today to honor and remember Sergeant Hoskins. They lined the streets in silence, holding American flags, before and after the funeral this morning.

"Let's appreciate the freedom that has been given to us by sacrifice of so many,” said Kelly during the service.

And it was this display of pride in country that pulled on many heartstrings today, especially of those like Clayton, who is a military veteran.

"I'm proud to see that people are still serving our country in a time of war and peace and that there's still people that are patriotic in this country,” said Clayton.

Through tears and prayer, his family and thousands of friends said goodbye to Hoskins on this hot August day. His father Danny says he died honorably, serving his country and fighting for what he believed in.

"I'm hurt certainly, I feel the loss of my son, but did what he wanted to do and he with everything he had and he obviously put his whole life into it,” said Danny Hoskins.

And he says the life and love of Jay Hoskins will live on with his family.

"I love him with all my heart, he was my son, I'm proud of him.”