Saying goodbye to Connecticut State Trooper Kenneth Hall

Hartford (WTNH) - A powerful scene in Hartford as thousands of police officers from all across the country came to pay respects to Trooper First Class Kenneth Hall.

A sea of blue marched into Hartford, a procession in honor of a fallen brother

Bagpipes played as police officers from as far away as California watched the hearse carrying Trooper Hall wind through the streets..

"This is truly a bittersweet experience," said Lt. Michael Darcy of the Connecticut State Police

He served 22 years as a state trooper. This father and husband also spent 13 years in the Marines. In tribute, a riderless horse symbolic of loss stood by as Marines carried the casket into the Armory followed by family and friends. Others who never even knew the man also shared in their grief.

"My heart goes out to basically the mother and the children," Waynett Bobbs of Hartford said.

"I didn't know him that well but I appreciate what he did and he was a remarkable young man," said Ronald Mink of Hartford.

People outside listened as those inside the service who knew Trooper Hall honored his service and life. Lt. Paul Vance of the Connecticut State Police read a note sent from former President Bill Clinton.

"Our nation is a better place to live thanks to people like Kenneth Hall,"  Vance said.

"Not only did we lose a fellow citizen and a trooper but also one of our own brothers." said Marine Gunnery Sgt. Ronald Cullen.

Trooper Hall, who was killed in a crash on I-91 in Enfield last week when a pickup truck smashed into his cruiser, was honored with a 21-gun salute And then the crowd stood silent for a flyover

Troopers spoke of Hall's loyalty.

Lt. Michael Darcy was a classmate in the Academy, sad to lose a friend, but grateful for the support of so many who came to say goodbye.

"It was an unbelievable outpouring of support, the ultimate tribute to Trooper Hall who truly did give his life for the citizens of this state," Darcy said.

There will be a private burial with full military honors.