Funeral Services For Michigan Marine Killed In Afghanistan

SOUTHFIELD (WWJ) - Members of the Patriot Guard Riders have arrived at a Southfield church where family and friends are gathered for the funeral of a Michigan Marine.

The 23-year-old Lance Corporal Steven Stevens, II, was killed be a rocket-propelled grenade while serving in Afghanistan.

He had not even met his son, who was born just days after he was deployed.

Visitation continues until 11 a.m. followed by funeral services at Hope United Methodist Church in Southfield. Burial will follow at Mt. Hope Memorial Gardens in Livonia.

WWJ Newsradio 950's Mike Campbell talked with the Patriot Guard Riders' Capt. Marty Saludburg, who explained what they're all about.

"This patriot guard got started with the Westboro Church protest ... We stood between the church protesters and the families. We do this as an honor for the fallen soldiers," he said.

More on the Patriot Guard Riders here.