Wounded soldiers take stage before Fort Hood ceremony honoring those killed gets under way

Associated Press

Last update: November 10, 2009 - 1:52 PM

Print this story

More from Nation

FORT HOOD, Texas - Several soldiers wounded in last week's shooting spree at Fort Hood, Texas, have made their way onto a stage in front of thousands gathered for a military memorial service.

Some were on crutches, one was in a wheelchair. They were joined by victims' relatives as they made their way to the platform Tuesday where President Barack Obama was to speak.

At the front of the platform stood a row of battlefield crosses and the traditional tribute to a fallen soldier: pairs of boots, with a rifle protruding from them and a combat helmet resting atop the weapon. In front of each pair of boots was a photo of each victim.

A military band played somber, patriotic music leading up to the ceremony.

The soldier suspected in the shootings that left 13 people dead and 29 wounded remains hospitalized with gunshot wounds.

Recent Nation stories

National 'Day of Outrage' takes aim at gun violence, crime in US cities - November 10, 2009

National 'Day of Outrage' takes aim at gun violence, crime in US cities - Residents of a broken north St. Louis neighborhood called Monday for a restoration of hope and dignity, and in Atlanta, the Rev. Al Sharpton declared war on community violence and drug dealers. More