Young rocketeers honor fallen soldier

ROSWELL, N.M. (KRQE) - A group of fourth graders in Roswell displayed a high-flying salute Friday to the latest New Mexico soldier killed in Iraq.

They ignited rockets in honor of Army Pfc. Antonio Stiggins.

The Washington Elementary students donned their red, white and blue as they set off their patriotic cardboard rockets.

Stiggins was killed April 22 after an improvised explosive device exploded.

His father, Luke Stiggins, works at the school and says the constant support of everyone is truly touching.

"It's tough keeping the tears back; it really is," Stiggins said. "This is our future, and they have a ball. They love it, and they understand everything that we are doing. It's wonderful."

Before Luke Stiggins deployed he came in uniform to see the students and teach them about his service.