From Route 60 in Cabell County to Interstate 64 in Charleston, many people lined up along roadways to pay their respects to Hershel "Woody" Williams.
With a motorcade fit for an American hero, Williams' body was brought to Charleston Saturday to lie in state at the Capitol.
Jim Smith came to Cross Lanes to watch the processional go by.
"I was always honored to speak to him," Smith said. "He's a good guy."
Smith said he formed a friendship with Woody over the years at fundraising events.
"I imagine he probably spent one-fourth of his civilian hours doing charitable deeds. He was a good man, a great West Virginian, and he will be sorely missed," Smith said.
Dozens of motorcycle riders anchored the beginning and end of the procession. Patriot Guard members Tammie Hetzer-Womack and Mike Stiltner were among the participants.
"I just wanted to show respect to those who fought for us," Stiltner said. "A lot of these soldiers don't have a lot of family left, and it's just our way of saying 'thank you,' and, 'We appreciate what you've done for us.' "
While it was a somber day for many, Hetzer-Womack believes the life and legacy of Woody Williams should be celebrated.
"With Fourth of July upon us, it's really a wonderful time to celebrate the freedoms we have in America that we can all be out here today," she said. "Sometimes I think that we look at America as things are tough here. Gas prices are high. Inflation is high, but there's really a lot to celebrate here in America. Someone like Woody Williams, that's who you celebrate."
Williams joins a short list of people to ever lie in state at the Capitol. The last person to do so was Sen. Robert C. Byrd exactly 12 years ago today.