National Guardsman killed in Ellicott City flooding receives salute from fellow members of his unit

ELLICOTT CITY, Md. - A National Guardsman who was swept away during the devastating flooding in Ellicott City over the weekend was honored by current and former members of his National Guard unit.

Sgt. Eddison "Eddie" Hermond, a sergeant in the Maryland National Guard and an Air Force veteran, died heroically after he is believed to have been washed away while attempting to rescue a woman and her cat as the raging waters flooded Main Street on Sunday.

His body was recovered in the Patapsco River two days later, police said.

Hermond's National Guard unit stood on the side of the road and saluted their friend and colleague as his body passed through Ellicott City and was being taken to the medical's examiner's office. According to Hermond's best friend, his unit members were the ones who located him on Tuesday after going on a search of their own.

"We're deeply saddened to learn that the body of Sgt. Eddison Hermond has been found. There are no words to adequately describe our sense of loss," Maryland Gov. Larry Hogan said in a statement. "He was a man who dedicated his life in service to others, in the Air Force & MD National Guard, and again on Sunday night as he bravely risked his life to assist a fellow citizen during the flooding in Ellicott City. Our heartfelt prayers go out to Sgt. Hermond's family and loved ones."

Hogan ordered all flags in Maryland to fly at half-staff in honor of Hermond.

Hermond leaves behind a 13-year-old son.

A GoFundMe page has been created to raise money in support of his family. To donate, go to www.gofundme.com/hj9tt-support-for-eddison-hermond