Corey Comperatore, the volunteer firefighter who lost his life shielding his family from gunfire targeting former President Trump, was remembered and mourned by his community and fellow firefighters in a poignant wake on Thursday.
Corey Comperatore, the beloved volunteer firefighter and Trump supporter who heroically sacrificed his life to protect his family from a barrage of bullets aimed at the former president, was honored in a deeply moving wake on Thursday.
Comperatore, 50, was killed on Saturday while attending a rally for Trump in Butler, Pennsylvania, when a would-be assassin opened fire. Eyewitnesses hailed Comperatore as a true hero, describing how he instinctively shielded his wife and daughters from the deadly gunfire.
Hero Firefighter Corey Comperatore Honored in Emotional Wake
The emotional wake, held at Laube Hall in Freeport, drew hundreds of mourners who came to pay their respects to the fallen firefighter and express their condolences to his family. Firefighters and a procession of law enforcement vehicles escorted Comperatore's casket to the venue, where the slain hero's memory was fondly remembered.
uniformed military personnel diligently secured the perimeter around the hall, ensuring the sanctity of the solemn occasion. Inside, Corey Comperatore's photo was prominently displayed, a poignant reminder of the tragic loss endured by his loved ones and the community.
Hero Firefighter Corey Comperatore Honored in Emotional Wake
Comperatore's obituary highlighted his unwavering spirit and selfless nature. He served in the Army Reserves for a decade, was an active member of Cabot Church, and dedicated his life to the Buffalo Township Volunteer Fire Department, where he had once served as chief.
Outside Laube Hall, a sea of folding chairs stood quietly against the walls, awaiting the somber procession of mourners who would gather to pay their final respects. The community came together, united in grief and gratitude for Comperatore's bravery.
Hero Firefighter Corey Comperatore Honored in Emotional Wake
Corey Comperatore's legacy extended far beyond his heroism at the rally. He was a devoted family man, providing unwavering support to his wife, Helen, and their two daughters, Kaylee and Allyson. His mother and two sisters also mourned the irreplaceable loss of their beloved son and brother.
"He was a simple man, but he put his wife and kids first all the time. He did everything," Helen Comperatore told the New York Post, recalling her husband's selfless nature. "He’s my hero."
Hero Firefighter Corey Comperatore Honored in Emotional Wake
The Comperatore family released a statement expressing their gratitude for the outpouring of support and prayers they had received. They emphasized the profound comfort they found in their faith and the love of their community.
"We ask for your continued prayers and privacy as we mourn and adjust to the realities of Corey’s unthinkable passing," the statement read.
Hero Firefighter Corey Comperatore Honored in Emotional Wake
President Biden expressed his deepest condolences to the Comperatore family, acknowledging the tragic loss of a father who had courageously shielded his loved ones from danger. A funeral procession is scheduled for Friday to honor the memory of Corey Comperatore, the hero who gave his life protecting his family.
Fox News' Michael Dorgan and Chris Pandolfo contributed to this report.
Hero Firefighter Corey Comperatore Honored in Emotional Wake
