SCRANTON -- Brotherhood was a word we heard a lot as the reason why some police officers traveled across the country to be here in Scranton for Corporal Bryon Dickson's funeral mass.
And while they were there remembering Cpl. Dickson, many of them had their minds on the troopers still working to find the alleged shooter.
There were no words. The sights and sounds said it all as Corporal Bryon Dickson's flag-draped casket approached the doors of St. Peter's Cathedral in downtown Scranton: the tolling of church bells, followed by snare drums and bagpipes, and the sea of blues, grays, and greens that stood watch.
Troopers and police -- or as they called themselves, brothers and sisters of Cpl. Dickson -- came from as far away as Alaska and New Mexico.
"Obviously, we mourn and grieve with the family and we're very sorry for their loss. It's a great honor to see that this man would be willing to give his life for his people. And we're honored to be a part of that," said Agent Jeremy Vaughn, New Mexico State Police.
"The length of travel means nothing. I've seen troopers from across the country. It's amazing how we all stick together as one family," said Lt. Eric Lariviere, Rhode Island State Police.
When the Dickson family, the corporal's wife and young sons, left the cathedral they were met by 2,600 father and mother figures.
Protecting the people Cpl. Dickson left behind is now one of their most personal and important duties.
Cpl. Dickson was shot and killed Friday night outside the state police barracks in Pike County. His alleged killer is still on the loose.
While they mourned, the men and women who put on the same uniform and do the same job that Dickson did asked "why?"
"I asked myself what was the motive. Not understanding the motive, and the fact that the suspect is still on the loose. It's an unsettled feeling inside as to why it occurred and whether the suspect is going to strike again," said Sgt. Joe Wigfall, Florida State Highway Patrol.
Security was high on Wyoming Avenue during the service. Spotters with binoculars and bullet proof vests were stationed on top of downtown buildings.
As Cpl. Dickson made his final trip from St. Peter's Cathedral, the other troopers were reminded of why they made the trip: to pay tribute to him and that their journey is far from over.