The family of Sgt. David Hart gathers around his widow, Nicole, second from left, as the soldier’s remains are returned from Iraq to Long Beach Airport. (Luis Sinco / Los Angeles Times)
Members of the California State Honor Guard prepare to receive the casket of Sgt. David Hart of Lake View Terrace. (Luis Sinco / Los Angeles Times)
Family members grieve as the sergeant’s remains arrive. (Luis Sinco / Los Angeles Times)
An airplane carrying the remains of Sgt. David Hart taxis beneath a snowcapped Mount Baldy. (Luis Sinco / Los Angeles Times)
Nicole Hart embraces Spc. Richard Gilbert, who served with Sgt. David Hart in Iraq and accompanied his remains home. (Luis Sinco / Los Angeles Times)
Nicole Hart leans on the casket of her husband as the soldier’s mother, Sheri Hart, comforts her. (Luis Sinco / Los Angeles Times)
Hart’s family gathers around his casket. (Luis Sinco / Los Angeles Times)
A military honor guard carries the casket past Jack Hart, left, the slain soldier’s father, and Nicole Hart, his widow. (Luis Sinco / Los Angeles Times)
Hart’s casket is carried toward the hearse. (Luis Sinco / Los Angeles Times)
Members of the veterans group Patriot Guard Riders escort the hearse away from the airport. (Luis Sinco / Los Angeles Times)
