Tyler Griffin laid to rest; local collection started for his unit

U.S. Marine Lance Cpl. Tyler Griffin was laid to rest this morning in Arlington National Cemetery, with his family in attendance.

Also today, the Voluntown Fire Department announced it is collecting items for a care package to send to Griffin's unit in Afghanistan.

The 19-year-old Voluntown native was killed on April 1 during combat operations in Afghanistan's Helmand province, according to the Department of Defense. Another Marine, Sgt. Frank J. World, 25, of Buffalo, N.Y., also died.

A 2008 graduate of Griswold High School, Griffin was assigned to 1st Battalion, 2nd Marine Regiment, 2nd Marine Division, II Marine Expeditionary Force based at Camp Lejeune, N.C. His funeral was held Wednesday at the Voluntown Baptist Church.

Anyone with items to contribute can stop by the fire department, 205 Preston City Road (Route 165), every night this week starting at 6:30 p.m.

Helpful care package items include baby wipe packets or the "Hoo-Ahhs" brand field towels, beef jerky, energy bars especially the HOOAH! energy bar, sunflower seeds, peanuts, seasoning salt, Atomic Fireballs, Jolly Rancher hard candy, Smarties and Sweet Tart candies.

Also, powdered energy or electrolyte replacement drink mix such as Gatorade, gum, Avon Skin So Soft, AA batteries, disposable razors, toothbrush and toothpaste, eye wash or drops, plastic storage bags and pre-paid phone cards.

The fire department asks that people not drop off anything that melts, waterless hand cleaner and sanitizer (wipes are preferred), coffee, liquor or pornography.