LOUISVILLE, Ky. -- Friends and family said goodbye to a Louisville Marine on Thursday.

Iraq Vet Dies In Wreck

Sgt. Cory Adkins survived two tours of duty in Iraq, but lost his life following a car crash last month near his base in North Carolina.

Those who knew him said Adkins seemed like a young man who had unlimited potential and certainly a great devotion to his family, his community and his country.

Adkins, 25, distinguished himself at home and abroad, joining the Marine Corps in 2002 after graduating from Seneca High School, serving as a cadet with the Beuchel Police Department and as a Camp Taylor firefighter.

On Thursday, Marines and fire trucks escorted his casket to his final resting place at Resthaven Memorial Park.

"The biggest thing about Cory was he was always in uniform. He was always ready to serve,” said firefighter Benjamin Mock. “He was always willing to protect his country and protect everyone."

"It's difficult. My son is two years younger. So close to home. We live with the fact that Cory’s come home and it's God's will and that there is a higher calling for him," said Julie Baines from the Camp Taylor Fire Department.

Adkins was buried with full military honors.