RICHVILLE -- Rain didn't dampen the spirit in Richville, where hundreds of people lined up to support their hero, Army Staff Sergeant Travis Mills of Vassar.
"It's awesome and I'm very proud of everybody giving their support because he certainly needs it because he's got a long hard life ahead of him,” Lana Martell of Millington said.
Mills lost his arms and legs in Afghanistan in an IED blast in April.
He’s recovering at Walter Reed Army Medical Center in Washington, D.C., and hometown support continues in Michigan.
The Yellow Ribbon Guard served up thousands of spaghetti dinners at the Richville American Legion Sunday, to raise money for travel and medical costs. Local businesses donated items for a silent auction, and supporters sold t-shirts and bracelets.
The significance of Memorial Day is not lost on those who say Travis Mills represents all of our troops serving the country.
"Because they're there every day and we need them; support and back them up every day,” Greg Martell, a Vietnam War vet, said.
"Thank God for our freedom and our soldiers who have given it to us,” Lana Martell said.
In this small community, the benefit proved one soldier's sacrifice has the power to rally thousands to express their gratitude in a big way.
"He's an American hero,” said Judy Adams, who coordinated Sunday’s event.
“Our thoughts and prayers are with him for a speedy recovery. He's a true leader and I hope the Army keeps him in because he's definitely a leader to show people what to do, even when something like this happens."
