Peter Wang: 'died a hero' should be buried as one.

A few thoughts on our recent, horrible mass shooting here in Florida. These views are personal and derived from sharing the pain of everyone affected by this event in my home state. This story hits very close to home for us for two reasons. Florida is our oasis from the rest of the fast-paced world. But my husband and I have two sons serving in the military currently. We are hugely supportive of all who serve this great country. Our hearts go out to the families of all involved in this horrible event.

Larry BarszewskiContact ReporterSouth Florida Sun Sentinel

Marjory Stoneman Douglas High student Peter Wang died in his JROTC uniform Wednesday helping others escape the gunfire at the school. Now a move is underway to see that he receives a military funeral for his effort.

A petition has been filed at WhiteHouse.gov with a “We the People” request to “Allow for Cadet Peter Wang to receive a Full Honors Military Burial.” The creator of the petition is identified as “C.K.”

As of Sunday night, 17,738 people had signed the petition on behalf of Wang, 15, but it needs 100,000 signatures for there to be a response from the White House. There were reports of some people not being able to sign the petition.

The petition says: “He was a JROTC Cadet who was last seen, in uniform, holding doors open and thus allowing other students, teachers, and staff to flee to safety. Wang was killed in the process. His selfless and heroic actions have led to the survival of dozens in the area. Wang died a hero, and deserves to be treated as such, and deserves a full honors military burial.”

He wanted to attend the U.S. Military Academy West Point.

Wang’s funeral is scheduled for 1 p.m. Tuesday at Kraeer Funeral Home, 1655 N. University Drive in Coral Springs. He will be laid to rest at Bailey Memorial Gardens in North Lauderdale.

Credit Photo and Quotes above from South Florida Sun Sentinel