Amid the roar of a Blackhawk helicopter, descending upon Jay County High School, hundreds of wide-eyed students, town residents and school officials honored the "character" of a fallen war hero and welcomed Indiana's National Guard Commander for a somber, yet inspirational ceremony focused on
character.

Led by Jay Schools Superintendent, Dr. Timothy Long, the Portland schools joined with the community in honoring the heroic accomplishments of the late Sgt. Major Jeffery A. McLochlin. McLochlin was killed July 5, 2006, while serving in the war in Afghanistan.

Also attending the ceremony were members of the Indiana National Guard leadership, U.S. Rep. Mike Pence, and representatives from the City of Portland, Jay County and the Jay Schools Corporation.