Fallen Marine honored in Maine
PORTLAND, Maine -- Hundreds packed the church where Lance Corporal Angel Rosa, 21, had planned a Roman Catholic wedding ceremony to pay last respects yesterday to the Marine, who was killed in action in Iraq.
Governor John Baldacci joined Rosa's friends and family at Sacred Heart Church for a funeral Mass for the 2004 South Portland High School graduate, who enlisted in the Marines just over a year ago. He died March 13 fighting in Anbar province.
Rosa's wife, Elise, and other family members walked behind the flag-draped casket as it was accompanied by a military honor guard. Elise and Angel Rosa were married last May in a civil ceremony at South Portland City Hall.
Rosa, the captain of the South Portland soccer team during his senior year, was considering a career as a police officer or firefighter after his tour of duty.
Rosa, who was promoted posthumously from private first class, was remembered for his activities as a community volunteer . 