PARIS, TX -- The body of a North Texas Marine killed in Afghanistan was returned home Thursday. Thousands of people lined the streets of Paris to honor Marine Sgt. Jay Hoskins. Josh Stevenson has more.

The flag-draped coffin of Marine Sgt. Jay Hoskins was met by thousands of people Thursday. Some were waiting outside the airport. Others stood and waited along the side of the road, waving American flags, wanting to pay tribute to one of their own who died fighting for their freedom.

"Nobody wants to see our troops in harm’s way, but if that's where they are, then we are behind them 100%," Paris resident Robert Dyer said.

The overwhelming grief of losing a loved one to war is one of the reasons that more than 100 Patriot Guard riders showed up to escort the body and show their support.

"To show them that their family member has not been forgotten, and will not be forgotten," Patriot Guard rider Mike Eubank said.

The people who showed up to say ‘thank you’ say this sacrifice will not be forgotten. In recent years, the city of Paris has struggled with division, but Thursday it was a city united, connected by the sacrifice of one Marine.

"The reason for the occasion is very sad, but I am glad people came out to show support for the family, and hopefully think about the sacrifices made and what that means to us here at home," Paris city manager Kevin Carruth said.

Funeral services for Sgt. Hoskins will be held on Saturday morning, at 10 a.m. at North Lamar High School in Paris.