Ill. soldier honored by residents lining streets

EFFINGHAM — Many residents lined the streets as the body of a 31-year-old soldier from the Effingham area was driven through the south-central Illinois town.

Sgt. Timothy Sayne died Sept. 18 in an explosion in Afghanistan. His body was driven through a number of small towns along U.S. 45 before reaching Effingham on Monday.

Ann Platt was among those who took the time to honor Sayne. She told the Effingham Daily News that members of the military are owed the country’s support and respect.

Others out Monday knew Sayne. Aric Cornell grew up with Sayne and recalled him as a “nice kid, friendly.”

A funeral is planned Wednesday. Sayne will be buried in Arlington National Cemetery.