When Joseph Lemm was laid to rest, his funeral wasn’t the same as many others. The Air National Guardsman and fallen officer had served his country and the state of New York for over a dozen years, and had come to be respected in his field.

Lemm was nicknamed “Superman” by his co-workers and friends and had climbed the ranks in the New York Police Department. He went on to serve his country overseas in the military. It was a trip to Afghanistan where he lost his life.

He had served two prior tours overseas, but this time, a suicide bomber took his life. When he returned to New York to be laid to rest, the emotional scene that unfolded was nothing short of amazing. It wasn’t just the sea of blue that came to pay their respects, but one tiny little boy who caught everyone’s attention.

Lemm’s four-year-old son, Ryan, adored his father. Wearing his dad’s gold shield and cradling his police hat, the little boy sat atop the shoulders of his father’s partner. He trailed closely behind the flag draped casket as they made their way into St. Patrick’s Cathedral.

It was Ryan’s final send off to his father that left everyone in tears. Watch the video below to watch the tear-jerking moment that the little preschooler lifts his tiny hand and gives his father one final salute and farewell.

Be sure to share this video with your family and friends. Heroes like Joseph Lemm deserve respect for the service they have given our country.