Gov. Mike Parson ordered flags to fly at half staff for United States Marine Lance Corporal Jared Schmitz, 20, of Wentzville, on Thursday.

Schmitz died on Thursday, August 26 while assisting in evacuation efforts in Kabul, Afghanistan.

“We owe a debt gratitude to Lance Corporal Jared Schmitz that can never be repaid, but we will always remember and honor his service and sacrifice on behalf of our nation in the defense of freedom," said Governor Parson, in a release. “He put his life on the line protecting our service members and allies, and he made the ultimate sacrifice for his bravery. Our hearts go out to Lance Corporal Jared Schmitz’s family and friends.”

The Missouri State Highway Patrol is assisting in escorting Lance Corporal Schmitz from Baue Funeral Home to Jefferson Barracks Cemetery as his loved ones prepare to lay the fallen Marine to rest on Thursday.

The procession will travel eastbound on I-70, southbound on I-270, eastbound on I-255, and exit at Telegraph Road.

The escort will travel north on Telegraph Road to Sheridan Road.

The route will be closed for travel during the escort which is scheduled for 2 p.m.

The MSHP asked drivers to plan ahead and find an alternate route during this time. They thanked the community for having patience while they escort an American hero to his final resting place.