LJ-SEC: (ORIGINALLY POSTED BY jaded_journeys)

I live in a small town in South Carolina. On February 2, 2007, Army CWO Jason DeFrenn was killed in Iraq. I did not know the man personally, but I do know his family and used to have sleep overs with his step-sister when we were in grammar school. My parents know his father pretty well too.

The reason I'm posting this here is that I learned last night, and confirmed it on their website, that Westboro Baptist Church will be coming to protest the funeral. The Patriot Guard Riders will also be attending (I saw their trailer outside Wal-Mart this afternoon as a matter of fact), and apparently have already spoken to DeFrenn's father.

I want to know if anyone here has ever dealt with Phelps and his ilk in your town? As I said I know the family and I do not want to see their son's funeral turned into some sort of circus. The funeral is tomorrow afternoon at the largest church in town, ironically a Baptist church like Westboro claims to be.

I guess I'm wondering what the family's options might be, if any. I know South Carolina was one of the states that passed laws in response to Phelps picketing funerals, but I'm not sure of the specifics or how they can be enforced. I know the law enforcement here will not put up with much as two of DeFrenn's friends are Sheriff Deputies here in town.

The problem is that not many people around here know about Phelps. We're not exactly a liberal town, but I know of no one who might go so far as to agree with Phelps. I know for a fact that the family is made up of Conservative Christians who would not condone homosexuality, but obviously they don't spout Phelps's brand of hatred. I'm sure the family is aware as the Patriot Guard Riders have contacted them, and the local weekly newspaper knows (it's how I first learned they were coming as my boyfriend works there).

I guess I'm also venting as it's a sad story no matter which way you slice it. DeFrenn's wife was pregnant with their fourth child and had to be induced the day she found out because doctors were worried about how the stress of her husband's death would affect the pregnancy. She was, thankfully, close to term and the baby is healthy and doing well.

I just wish I could do something. :(