A Maryland National Guardsman who died while trying to help a woman during a flash flood was laid to rest Thursday.
Staff Sgt. Eddison Hermond was swept away May 27 in flash flooding in Ellicott City. His funeral was underway Thursday in Severn.
Maryland Gov. Larry Hogan spoke at the service, calling Hermond a man who "put his life at risk for someone he didn't even know."
Hogan said Hermond's attempt to help a woman in the flood was a "final act of heroism" that "came at the end of a life that was full of brave and selfless acts." The governor noted that Hermond served on active duty in the Air Force and later joined the Army National Guard.
Hogan praised Hermond for stepping in during the storm when he did not have to. He said Hermond "did what had become second nature to him: serving others in need without hesitation and no regard for his own safety."
In a statement last week, Hermond's family said, "We are confident that his light will shine on."
