Community prepares to say goodbye to fallen Pineville firefighter

CHARLOTTE, N.C. — A memorial planned for Saturday will honor a Pineville firefighter killed in the line of duty.

Nearly 2,000 people are expected to attend the funeral for 20-year-old Richard Sheltra.

[ VIDEO: Community prepares for Sheltra's final ride ]

Channel 9 learned that a special American flag will be presented to the family Saturday.

The U.S. flag was flown over the U.S. Capitol Thursday in honor of Sheltra at the request of Rep. Robert Pittenger. The flag was shipped overnight to Pineville.

Channel 9 has learned there will be a ceremonial presentation of a different American flag to the fire chief Friday afternoon.

That flag, and a letter from the governor, will be presented to the fire chief at 5 p.m.

On Friday afternoon, Sheltra's body was escorted to the funeral home in a small procession ahead of Saturday's memorial service.

In the meantime, firefighters at the station have been preparing for the funeral.

Fellow firefighters have been outfitting fire truck Number 4 that will be used to carry the body of their fallen brother in Saturday’s ceremony.

Jessica Demeter visited the Pineville Fire Department Friday to show her gratitude.

"Somebody's life was taken saving our lives and providing service," Demeter said.

Flowers and cards have been on display at the fire department all week.

"It was overwhelming,” she said. “I didn't expect it to hit me, but it was overwhelming."

Firefighters told Channel 9 that it has been a hard week for them and Sheltra's family, but they've been leaning on and supporting each other.

"We got to spend a little bit of time with them yesterday and saw some personal pictures,” said Bill Suthard, the spokesman for the Pineville Volunteer Fire Department. “Lots of laughing, story-telling and a lot of healing."

Thousands of people will attend the funeral Saturday, including firefighters from all over the country. The service is open to the public.

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