Family mourns loss of fallen Knightdale airman

KNIGHTDALE

Ginett was honored from the moment the plane landed with his casket at Seymour Johnson Air Force Base and all along the 50 mile drive to the funeral home in Fuquay-Varina.

"This is an individual who gave the ultimate sacrifice for our everyday freedoms," SJAFB Honor Guard TSGT Stacey Hines said. "This is the least we can do is to honor him in the most respectful way possible."

Led by dozens of members of the patriot guard on their motorcycles, the airman was taken through Wayne County, Johnston County, and to Wake County where he once called home.

"It is very emotional, because at any time that could be anyone of us, our family, our friends that are out there," Hines said. "So, it kind of brings the war right here to your door step."

An improvised explosive device killed the 29-year-old Jan. 19 near Kandahar Air Field, Afghanistan.

The same type of explosive the Knightdale native was tasked with discovering and disarming to protect other members of the military.

Ginett was assigned to the 31st Civil Engineer Squadron explosive ordnance disposal flight at Aviano Air Base, Italy.

The airman's death has brought profound pain to his family. Many ask for privacy while preparing for funerals, but his parents say they have good reason for letting the public see the dignified transfer ceremony.

His mother considers it a necessary recognition of his mission.

"Trying to help these countries. Trying to help them in any way we can help them," said Christina Kazakavage, Ginett's mother. "And if it means the ugly side of war is what happens, it's what happens."

Ginett's mother expects about 600 members of the military to join mourners for his funeral. Afterwards, he'll be buried with full military honors.

Here are the details:

VISITATION:
Thursday, January 28, 5-8 p.m.
Thomas Funeral Home
401 N. Ennis St.
Fuquay Varina, NC 27526

FUNERAL SERVICE
Friday, January 29, 11 a.m.
St. Bernadette's Catholic Church
1005 Wilbon Rd
Fuquay Varina, NC 27526

BURIAL
Raleigh Memorial Park
7501 Glenwood Ave
Raleigh, NC 27612

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