Eleven Patriot Guard and eight US Military Vets MC members stood the flag line in a wind driven cool rain to honor John Bergseid for his service to our country.
The rain was present from arrival time to the start of the service so parts of the service outside were in question but Mother Nature provided a break and the funeral went on as originally planned. The flag line stood down at 2:00 P.M. when the service started and was reformed at 2:40 P.M. As the casket and the family departed the church for the burial site, which is on the church property, the Patriot Guard and the Military Vets walked along either side of the casket and the family providing an escort. We were joined by the Moorhead Legion Color Guard which provided the military honors.
After family and friends had departed the flag line was dismissed, there was no post-mission gathering as I believe everyone wanted to get home and get on some dry clothes.
Thank you to John Bergseid for his service to our country ! Thank you to all who were able to be there to honor his service.
Greg Syverson, RCIC
Tuesday, October 11, 2011
Friday, October 7, 2011
Maynard "Andy" Anderson
Twelve Patriot Guard were able to stand the flag line to honor Andy Anderson for his service to our country.
The wind was brisk (actually that isn't quite correct - it was very windy, and at times we had a difficult time holding our flags), and the flags blew crisp in the wind. The funeral home arrived shortly after we gathered, so we quickly established a flag line as Mr Anderson was brought into the church. We then had our briefing and reformed the flag line at 9:50 a.m. before family and friends started arriving. During the service we stood down and were offered coffee by the ladies of the church.
Before the service ended, all but 4 went ahead to the cemetery to establish the flag line. The remaining members stood the flag line with members of the North Dakota Air Guard for transfer to hearse, and then led the procession to the cemetery. We were joined by the North Star Marine Corps League who provided military honors. After family & friends had departed, the funeral director had the flag line move in closer while Mr. Anderson's ashes were placed in the ground. Flag line was dismissed and post-mission gathering held at the Speak Easy.
Thank you to Mr Anderson for his service to our country! Thank you to all who were able to attend today to honor him!
Saturday, September 10, 2011
Benedict "Ben" Auer, Albany, MN 9 Sep 11
On a cloudless calm day, 29 PGR members came together to provide an outstanding display of Red, White, and Blue for Benedict (Ben) Auer at the Seven Dolors Catholic Church in Albany MN.
The day started with 12 members staging at the River Boat Depot in Sartell MN. Mark Kerfeld led the 8 Bikes and 1 cage from Sartell through the back beautiful winding roads from Sartell to Albany. Upon arriving in Albany we joined up with the other 17 members, had a short briefing, during which we were then blessed with the company of the Auer family. They thanked us to no end for being there for them. We then took flags in hand and set up around the front and down a short sidewalk in front of the Church in preparation for the review before the service.
At 11:00 the service started and we stood down and enjoyed the gorgeous day in a shady area, first in the parking lot then out in the Cemetery near the final resting spot. We then sent 4 members to provide a flag line at the church and the rest of us set up in the Cemetery to await the family. As the hearse left the church the 4 PGR members took up position in front of the hearse and behind the Legion Color Guard and they all marched the short distance to the Cemetery.
Following a few prayers the Legion provided the 21 gun salute and played taps. There were 2 Military Honor Guards present to remove the flag from the casket and present it to Mrs Auer. The Legion members and Military Honor soldiers did their parts flawlessly providing a tribute to Ben that was much deserved.
The PGR presence was due to some great members giving up their time when they could have done all kinds of other things. Members present were from St Cloud, Alexandria, Detroit Lakes, Brainerd, Metro N.W. and I believe one other area in the Metro. I can't thank those present enough for making this day the best possible for the Auer family. They know we care and they were truly taken back from the display you gave them. The flag line was maintained in true PGR Dignity, Honor, and Respect and I am proud to have had the opportunity to stand this day with some great people. One of the toughest times for a Mission is during the week as we all have busy lives and it is tough to miss work for too many Missions. But on this day you truly made a big difference with your presence and should all be proud of being a part of this Mission.
Next to the Church is a school and during the review I was approached by the Principal who thanked all of us for being there and for what we do throughout MN. She told me that the students were really amazed at what they saw at the Church and she wanted to know how her husband and she could join the PGR. I luckily had 30 PGR cards and gave her a few to share.
Without the statewide support given to St Cloud we could not provide the great day like today and without the help of the RC'S getting the word out we could not have the day we did. Without the great support from the people behind the scenes doing the web stuff we could not get anything done so I thank all of you that had a part in making this all work. Great job by all, Thank You!!
The day started with 12 members staging at the River Boat Depot in Sartell MN. Mark Kerfeld led the 8 Bikes and 1 cage from Sartell through the back beautiful winding roads from Sartell to Albany. Upon arriving in Albany we joined up with the other 17 members, had a short briefing, during which we were then blessed with the company of the Auer family. They thanked us to no end for being there for them. We then took flags in hand and set up around the front and down a short sidewalk in front of the Church in preparation for the review before the service.
At 11:00 the service started and we stood down and enjoyed the gorgeous day in a shady area, first in the parking lot then out in the Cemetery near the final resting spot. We then sent 4 members to provide a flag line at the church and the rest of us set up in the Cemetery to await the family. As the hearse left the church the 4 PGR members took up position in front of the hearse and behind the Legion Color Guard and they all marched the short distance to the Cemetery.
Following a few prayers the Legion provided the 21 gun salute and played taps. There were 2 Military Honor Guards present to remove the flag from the casket and present it to Mrs Auer. The Legion members and Military Honor soldiers did their parts flawlessly providing a tribute to Ben that was much deserved.
The PGR presence was due to some great members giving up their time when they could have done all kinds of other things. Members present were from St Cloud, Alexandria, Detroit Lakes, Brainerd, Metro N.W. and I believe one other area in the Metro. I can't thank those present enough for making this day the best possible for the Auer family. They know we care and they were truly taken back from the display you gave them. The flag line was maintained in true PGR Dignity, Honor, and Respect and I am proud to have had the opportunity to stand this day with some great people. One of the toughest times for a Mission is during the week as we all have busy lives and it is tough to miss work for too many Missions. But on this day you truly made a big difference with your presence and should all be proud of being a part of this Mission.
Next to the Church is a school and during the review I was approached by the Principal who thanked all of us for being there and for what we do throughout MN. She told me that the students were really amazed at what they saw at the Church and she wanted to know how her husband and she could join the PGR. I luckily had 30 PGR cards and gave her a few to share.
Without the statewide support given to St Cloud we could not provide the great day like today and without the help of the RC'S getting the word out we could not have the day we did. Without the great support from the people behind the scenes doing the web stuff we could not get anything done so I thank all of you that had a part in making this all work. Great job by all, Thank You!!
Monday, August 29, 2011
SGT Matthew Harmon
Sgt. Matthew Harmon escort Friday, August 26, 2011:
John Reuter RC’d the escort from Bemidji to Fosston. The plane landed at 10:00 a.m. at the Bemidji airport. Eight bikes escorted Sgt. Matthew Harmon the thirty miles to the Fosston funeral home. Every town they traveled through had people waving flags in honor of Sgt. Harmon. The escort arrived in Fosston at noon. Thanks to the MN Highway Patrol for the LE escort.
Sgt. Matthew Harmon visitation and service Saturday, August 27, 2011:
The morning started out a little chilly but warmed plenty by the start of the visitation for the approximate 127 members and 100 bikes from Minnesota and North Dakota. At 10:30 a.m. we had a briefing for the day’s mission. At 11:00 a.m., six riders escorted Sgt. Matthew Harmon from the funeral home to the Fosston High School. The remainder of the riders stood on the flag line at the school. After the casket was brought into the school, we stood down and had time for coffee, water, cookies, and bars that were provided for us. At 11:45 a.m. we re-established the flag line for the visitation. We stood down at 2:15 p.m. to prepare for the escort to the cemetery in Lengby. Jim Cyr took about 12 members who were in cages to the cemetery to set up a flag line for the arrival of Sgt. Harmon. We re-established a flag line outside the school with about 25 members when they brought Sgt. Harmon from the services to the hearse. The 25 members re-joined the remainder of the riders who were staging across the street for the escort to the Lengby cemetery. We all proceeded to be lined up on HWY 2 with the Polk County Sherriff deputy escorting 4 fire trucks, our 100 bikes followed by the hearse and the family of Sgt. Harmon. As we rode the seven miles to the Lengby cemetery at 25 mph, there were people along the entire route holding flags in honor of Sgt. Harmon and for support of his family. Upon arrival we set up a flag line around the perimeter of the cemetery. After the completion of the services, which included the ringing of the “Freedom Bell” seven times, we stayed in formation until the family had gone through and thanked each of us and left the cemetery.
Thanks to Jim Cyr and Curt Nelson for all their coordination for this mission and for all the participants who were able give of themselves for the honor, respect, and dignity of Sgt. Matthew Harmon, a true American Hero.
Gary Metcalf, RCIC
John Reuter RC’d the escort from Bemidji to Fosston. The plane landed at 10:00 a.m. at the Bemidji airport. Eight bikes escorted Sgt. Matthew Harmon the thirty miles to the Fosston funeral home. Every town they traveled through had people waving flags in honor of Sgt. Harmon. The escort arrived in Fosston at noon. Thanks to the MN Highway Patrol for the LE escort.
Sgt. Matthew Harmon visitation and service Saturday, August 27, 2011:
The morning started out a little chilly but warmed plenty by the start of the visitation for the approximate 127 members and 100 bikes from Minnesota and North Dakota. At 10:30 a.m. we had a briefing for the day’s mission. At 11:00 a.m., six riders escorted Sgt. Matthew Harmon from the funeral home to the Fosston High School. The remainder of the riders stood on the flag line at the school. After the casket was brought into the school, we stood down and had time for coffee, water, cookies, and bars that were provided for us. At 11:45 a.m. we re-established the flag line for the visitation. We stood down at 2:15 p.m. to prepare for the escort to the cemetery in Lengby. Jim Cyr took about 12 members who were in cages to the cemetery to set up a flag line for the arrival of Sgt. Harmon. We re-established a flag line outside the school with about 25 members when they brought Sgt. Harmon from the services to the hearse. The 25 members re-joined the remainder of the riders who were staging across the street for the escort to the Lengby cemetery. We all proceeded to be lined up on HWY 2 with the Polk County Sherriff deputy escorting 4 fire trucks, our 100 bikes followed by the hearse and the family of Sgt. Harmon. As we rode the seven miles to the Lengby cemetery at 25 mph, there were people along the entire route holding flags in honor of Sgt. Harmon and for support of his family. Upon arrival we set up a flag line around the perimeter of the cemetery. After the completion of the services, which included the ringing of the “Freedom Bell” seven times, we stayed in formation until the family had gone through and thanked each of us and left the cemetery.
Thanks to Jim Cyr and Curt Nelson for all their coordination for this mission and for all the participants who were able give of themselves for the honor, respect, and dignity of Sgt. Matthew Harmon, a true American Hero.
Gary Metcalf, RCIC
Sunday, August 28, 2011
Waldemar "Wally" Ahlf, 28 Aug 11, Sebeka, MN
Under clear skies, 22 Patriot Guard stood the flag line to honor Waldemar "Wally" Ahlf for his service in the Army during WWII, and his many years in Law Enforcement, on 28 Aug 11, in Sebeka, MN. Flag line was established for arrival at the church, and re-established for family and friends attending visitation and services. Flag line was again established for military honors, When Mr. Ahlf was brought out of the church, 15 squad cars from Hubbard, Wadena, and Ottertail counties and many local towns had their lights flashing and LEO also formed a line on both sides of the hearse. Wadena County Sherrif's office had the honors of folding the US flag for presentation to the family.
Services were held at the church that Mr. Ahlf attended for many years. There was a parking space sign that said "Pastor parking - you park - you preach". We noticed no one parked in that spot, but the Pastor did come over with tears in his eyes to thank us for being there today and to tell us what an impressive sight it was to see all the US Flags when he arrived.
Many family members and LEO thanked us for being there and for what we do. We were very strongly encouraged/invited in for the luncheon, which some members were able to participate in. Some of us went to A&W in Park Rapids for rootbeer floats.
Members came from Detroit Lakes, Bemidji, Brainerd and St Cloud Sectors - thanks to all who were able to attend! Thank you to Mr. Ahlf for his many years of service to our community and country.
Wednesday, August 24, 2011
Mission Report: KIA SO2 Nicholas Spehar, US Navy, Chisago City
Mission Report: KIA SO2 Nicholas Spehar, US Navy, Chisago City
Tuesday, 16 Aug: From the time the riders arrived at the Air Force base to escort home Navy Special Warfare Operator 2nd Class Nicholas Spehar; I knew this mission was going to be something different, something special. With Navy escort, the Air Force guard at the gate just waved us through. The Navy Petty Officer brought us to the road just outside the tarmac fence where the family would gather to await the plane carrying their fallen loved one. With the coach and family behind us we left the base. All we passed stood at attention and saluted. The street just inside the gate was lined with what looked like 50 to 70 Navy and Air Force personnel standing shoulder to shoulder saluting the procession as it passed. As we exited the freeway and rode the last 9 miles on Hwy 8, people in large and small groups lined the road. Waving flags or standing in silent respect with hands over hearts as the procession passed. Near a school a large group of small children held their flags with eyes opened wide as the procession by now had been joined by fire trucks and more squad cars. Goose bumps rose and tears swelled as we rode.
With only four and a half hours notice, MN Patriot Guard members had a flag line at the Funeral Home awaiting Nick Spehar’s arrival. (This mission will be remembered by its last minute time schedules and changes)
Thursday, 18 Aug: 130 MN Patriot Guard stood the flag line at the Visitation services for Nick. PGR Riders came from as far away as Willmar, Brainerd and St Cloud. This long afternoon and evening began around 2:15pm with the arrival of the coach carrying SO2 Spehar along with law enforcement and PGR escorts at St Bridget’s of Sweden Church. Early arrivals for staging had a flagline set up at the main entrance of the church and showed honors as Navy SEALS carried Nick into the church. The local fire dept had a large flag hanging from their ladder truck parked in the street alongside the church. Our flagline stretched from the back entrance of the church, around the side to the front entrance, out to the street (Hwy 8. Main St of the town) and along the sidewalk for almost a block. Family, guests and Navy SEALS walked the line thanking us for our presence. The MN PGR plaque and challenge coins were presented to the family along with our sincere condolences and gratefulness for their son and brother’s sacrifice and service.
I think the entire town came out to pay their respects to one of their own fallen residents as the church was full. There was also a lot of Navy presence at the visitation along with their top brass.
The family and the church were gracious enough to provide food for us and the military that were there during our long evening. We broke down the flagline around 8:15pm.
Friday, Aug 19: 116 MN Patriot Guard members gathered at the parking lot of the St Paul College to stage for the Funeral of SO2 Nicholas Spehar. We walked over to the Cathedral of St Paul in a single file line of flags. An awesome sight of support and respect for our fallen warrior. Our flagline extended down both sides of the long steps leading from the front doors of the cathedral to the street, down the sidewalk along the entire block and around the corner to a side entrance. Fire trucks from Chisago City and Lindstrom were there with a huge flag hanging from the ladder truck. Nick and family arrived with law enforcement, more fire trucks and Patriot Guard escort. Navy SEALS carried him up the stairs to his funeral service. Amongst the large crowd in attendance were our Governor and Senator Amy Klobuchar.
Along with Ramsey County Motor Patrol and squad cars, Patriot Guard escorts led Nick Spehar to his final resting place. Upon arrival at Ft Snelling National Cemetery we were met by one of the largest PGR flaglines I have seen. A large formation of sailors, Navy Honor Guard and Rifle Squad were there, along with Nick’s SEAL team.
Military honors were given but the most touching was the Trident Ceremony. As Nick’s SEAL Team came one by one, they tacked their Navy SEAL Trident Pin to the top of his wooden coffin as a final honor and farewell to their fallen brother. Special Warfare Operator 2nd Class Nicholas Spehar, a true American hero.
A Navy (two star) Rear Admiral came by and thanked us for being there but hoped we didn’t have to meet like this again. Amen!
I want to thank all of our Patriot Guard members that attended this mission. The flagline is what matters. To all who stood with dignity and honor, this day we, the MN Patriot Guard, gained the respect of a very special group - The US Navy SEALS.
Respectfully,
Larry Myslicki “Slick”
Ride Captain Metro NE
MN Patriot Guard Rider
Tuesday, 16 Aug: From the time the riders arrived at the Air Force base to escort home Navy Special Warfare Operator 2nd Class Nicholas Spehar; I knew this mission was going to be something different, something special. With Navy escort, the Air Force guard at the gate just waved us through. The Navy Petty Officer brought us to the road just outside the tarmac fence where the family would gather to await the plane carrying their fallen loved one. With the coach and family behind us we left the base. All we passed stood at attention and saluted. The street just inside the gate was lined with what looked like 50 to 70 Navy and Air Force personnel standing shoulder to shoulder saluting the procession as it passed. As we exited the freeway and rode the last 9 miles on Hwy 8, people in large and small groups lined the road. Waving flags or standing in silent respect with hands over hearts as the procession passed. Near a school a large group of small children held their flags with eyes opened wide as the procession by now had been joined by fire trucks and more squad cars. Goose bumps rose and tears swelled as we rode.
With only four and a half hours notice, MN Patriot Guard members had a flag line at the Funeral Home awaiting Nick Spehar’s arrival. (This mission will be remembered by its last minute time schedules and changes)
Thursday, 18 Aug: 130 MN Patriot Guard stood the flag line at the Visitation services for Nick. PGR Riders came from as far away as Willmar, Brainerd and St Cloud. This long afternoon and evening began around 2:15pm with the arrival of the coach carrying SO2 Spehar along with law enforcement and PGR escorts at St Bridget’s of Sweden Church. Early arrivals for staging had a flagline set up at the main entrance of the church and showed honors as Navy SEALS carried Nick into the church. The local fire dept had a large flag hanging from their ladder truck parked in the street alongside the church. Our flagline stretched from the back entrance of the church, around the side to the front entrance, out to the street (Hwy 8. Main St of the town) and along the sidewalk for almost a block. Family, guests and Navy SEALS walked the line thanking us for our presence. The MN PGR plaque and challenge coins were presented to the family along with our sincere condolences and gratefulness for their son and brother’s sacrifice and service.
I think the entire town came out to pay their respects to one of their own fallen residents as the church was full. There was also a lot of Navy presence at the visitation along with their top brass.
The family and the church were gracious enough to provide food for us and the military that were there during our long evening. We broke down the flagline around 8:15pm.
Friday, Aug 19: 116 MN Patriot Guard members gathered at the parking lot of the St Paul College to stage for the Funeral of SO2 Nicholas Spehar. We walked over to the Cathedral of St Paul in a single file line of flags. An awesome sight of support and respect for our fallen warrior. Our flagline extended down both sides of the long steps leading from the front doors of the cathedral to the street, down the sidewalk along the entire block and around the corner to a side entrance. Fire trucks from Chisago City and Lindstrom were there with a huge flag hanging from the ladder truck. Nick and family arrived with law enforcement, more fire trucks and Patriot Guard escort. Navy SEALS carried him up the stairs to his funeral service. Amongst the large crowd in attendance were our Governor and Senator Amy Klobuchar.
Along with Ramsey County Motor Patrol and squad cars, Patriot Guard escorts led Nick Spehar to his final resting place. Upon arrival at Ft Snelling National Cemetery we were met by one of the largest PGR flaglines I have seen. A large formation of sailors, Navy Honor Guard and Rifle Squad were there, along with Nick’s SEAL team.
Military honors were given but the most touching was the Trident Ceremony. As Nick’s SEAL Team came one by one, they tacked their Navy SEAL Trident Pin to the top of his wooden coffin as a final honor and farewell to their fallen brother. Special Warfare Operator 2nd Class Nicholas Spehar, a true American hero.
A Navy (two star) Rear Admiral came by and thanked us for being there but hoped we didn’t have to meet like this again. Amen!
I want to thank all of our Patriot Guard members that attended this mission. The flagline is what matters. To all who stood with dignity and honor, this day we, the MN Patriot Guard, gained the respect of a very special group - The US Navy SEALS.
Respectfully,
Larry Myslicki “Slick”
Ride Captain Metro NE
MN Patriot Guard Rider
Thursday, July 14, 2011
Mission Complete: KIA SGT Chad Frokjer, USMC
Mission Report: KIA SGT Chad Frokjer, USMC
Thursday, July 7
134 MN Patriot Guard members came to Holman Field on this day to show honor for this Marine and another, CPL Michael Nolen, when they arrived home. Our flagline extended the length of the Air National Guard hanger and also lined the walls inside as we and family members awaited the arrival of the plane. The funeral coach for SGT Frokjer pulled into the hanger as he was first to be taken off the plane. When the plane stopped and engines were shut down our flagline moved out to it and wrapped around behind it.
Three St Paul Motor Patrol bikes and two Maplewood squads joined our eight PGR escort bikes to take SGT Frokjer and his family to the Roseville Memorial Chapel.
SGT Frokjer is the nephew of St Paul police Sgt Gerald Vick, killed in the line of duty back in 2005. Because of this connection the St Paul police were out in force to help us on our journey. They blocked all intersections on our route through downtown St Paul and all freeway entrance ramps on the way to Roseville. An awesome showing of respect for the nephew of one of their own fallen heroes.
Friday, July 8 Visitation
We had 23 flags lined up in front of St Marks Church in North St. Paul for the arrival of SGT Frokjer’s procession from the funeral home this afternoon. Eight PGR riders led the funeral coach and family with LEO escorts from Maplewood and North St Paul. The North St Paul Fire Dept came out with their aerial ladder truck and hung a huge American flag from it over the driveway entrance to the church.
66 MN PGR members came and went during this very long visitation, with a number of us staying for the entire seven hour mission. The temp on the sign board across the street said 97 degrees and the humidity was quite high. We had a comfort station set up in the back corner of the church parking lot with coolers of bottled water and a canopy for shade. I want to thank metro ne member John Moore for the canopy and water. Between him and me we must have had ten cases or more of water. Luckily there were a lot of trees and most people were able to stand in a shaded spot, rotating with those out in the sun. Then a lady from the church and her son pulled up in a car to our break area and unloaded a cooler and bags of food for us. We had large packages of ham, turkey, salami, roast beef, cheese, buns, potato salad, chips, chip dip, pop, cookies and granola bars. Even mustard and mayonnaise. I was awe struck and couldn’t thank them enough. Everyone on the flagline was able to enjoy some food and refreshment during this long, hot afternoon and evening. We also invited the fire fighters over to share it with them. Then during the last half hour of the visitation other people from the church brought out left over chunks of grilled chicken and steak, Caesar salad and French bread. We stood down at 8:00pm and all remaining PGR members enjoyed a meal before heading home. St Mark’s really goes all out in their hospitality mission. As we all thanked them they couldn’t stop thanking us for what we were doing to honor this Marine and his family.
The casket with SGT Frokjer stayed in the church sanctuary over night with a Marine guard on duty at all times.
Saturday, July 9 Funeral
115 MN Patriot Guard Riders came out on this Saturday morning for the final mission for Marine SGT Chad Frokjer. Our flagline was set up at 9:45am awaiting the arrival of the family. The funeral service got under way around 11:15 at which time we stood down. After a short break we moved to the cemetery less than a mile away. The Marine Honor Guard was already there preparing for the military honors ceremony. We established our flagline and awaited the arrival of the funeral procession. Our six PGR escort bikes were joined by four Leatherneck MC riders leading the hearse. It was an honor for them and us to ride together showing our respect for this young Marine who died for our country. The procession took a detour passing by the family home in Maplewood on the way to the cemetery. The graveside service took place next to Chad’s uncle Sgt Vick’s headstone. The Marines provided full military honors and I presented the MN PGR plaque to his wife. Chad’s mother was very insistent that we join them at the N. St Paul Am Legion for the luncheon afterwards. After I politely turned down the invite she said she would feel hurt if we did not attend, and said she would “track me down” if we didn’t show up. We didn’t disappoint her.
The family wanted me to pass on to all Patriot Guard Riders that attended during this three day mission their sincere appreciation and thanks for our being there. They said it made a big difference during these worst of their days. The Marine Corp members there also thanked us for what we do. Some had served with SGT Frokjer, and one having been there when he died. He leaves behind a sister, father, mother and wife who is 7 months pregnant with their first son.
Rest in Peace SGT Chad Frokjer.
Larry Myslicki “Slick”
Ride Captain Metro NE
Thursday, July 7
134 MN Patriot Guard members came to Holman Field on this day to show honor for this Marine and another, CPL Michael Nolen, when they arrived home. Our flagline extended the length of the Air National Guard hanger and also lined the walls inside as we and family members awaited the arrival of the plane. The funeral coach for SGT Frokjer pulled into the hanger as he was first to be taken off the plane. When the plane stopped and engines were shut down our flagline moved out to it and wrapped around behind it.
Three St Paul Motor Patrol bikes and two Maplewood squads joined our eight PGR escort bikes to take SGT Frokjer and his family to the Roseville Memorial Chapel.
SGT Frokjer is the nephew of St Paul police Sgt Gerald Vick, killed in the line of duty back in 2005. Because of this connection the St Paul police were out in force to help us on our journey. They blocked all intersections on our route through downtown St Paul and all freeway entrance ramps on the way to Roseville. An awesome showing of respect for the nephew of one of their own fallen heroes.
Friday, July 8 Visitation
We had 23 flags lined up in front of St Marks Church in North St. Paul for the arrival of SGT Frokjer’s procession from the funeral home this afternoon. Eight PGR riders led the funeral coach and family with LEO escorts from Maplewood and North St Paul. The North St Paul Fire Dept came out with their aerial ladder truck and hung a huge American flag from it over the driveway entrance to the church.
66 MN PGR members came and went during this very long visitation, with a number of us staying for the entire seven hour mission. The temp on the sign board across the street said 97 degrees and the humidity was quite high. We had a comfort station set up in the back corner of the church parking lot with coolers of bottled water and a canopy for shade. I want to thank metro ne member John Moore for the canopy and water. Between him and me we must have had ten cases or more of water. Luckily there were a lot of trees and most people were able to stand in a shaded spot, rotating with those out in the sun. Then a lady from the church and her son pulled up in a car to our break area and unloaded a cooler and bags of food for us. We had large packages of ham, turkey, salami, roast beef, cheese, buns, potato salad, chips, chip dip, pop, cookies and granola bars. Even mustard and mayonnaise. I was awe struck and couldn’t thank them enough. Everyone on the flagline was able to enjoy some food and refreshment during this long, hot afternoon and evening. We also invited the fire fighters over to share it with them. Then during the last half hour of the visitation other people from the church brought out left over chunks of grilled chicken and steak, Caesar salad and French bread. We stood down at 8:00pm and all remaining PGR members enjoyed a meal before heading home. St Mark’s really goes all out in their hospitality mission. As we all thanked them they couldn’t stop thanking us for what we were doing to honor this Marine and his family.
The casket with SGT Frokjer stayed in the church sanctuary over night with a Marine guard on duty at all times.
Saturday, July 9 Funeral
115 MN Patriot Guard Riders came out on this Saturday morning for the final mission for Marine SGT Chad Frokjer. Our flagline was set up at 9:45am awaiting the arrival of the family. The funeral service got under way around 11:15 at which time we stood down. After a short break we moved to the cemetery less than a mile away. The Marine Honor Guard was already there preparing for the military honors ceremony. We established our flagline and awaited the arrival of the funeral procession. Our six PGR escort bikes were joined by four Leatherneck MC riders leading the hearse. It was an honor for them and us to ride together showing our respect for this young Marine who died for our country. The procession took a detour passing by the family home in Maplewood on the way to the cemetery. The graveside service took place next to Chad’s uncle Sgt Vick’s headstone. The Marines provided full military honors and I presented the MN PGR plaque to his wife. Chad’s mother was very insistent that we join them at the N. St Paul Am Legion for the luncheon afterwards. After I politely turned down the invite she said she would feel hurt if we did not attend, and said she would “track me down” if we didn’t show up. We didn’t disappoint her.
The family wanted me to pass on to all Patriot Guard Riders that attended during this three day mission their sincere appreciation and thanks for our being there. They said it made a big difference during these worst of their days. The Marine Corp members there also thanked us for what we do. Some had served with SGT Frokjer, and one having been there when he died. He leaves behind a sister, father, mother and wife who is 7 months pregnant with their first son.
Rest in Peace SGT Chad Frokjer.
Larry Myslicki “Slick”
Ride Captain Metro NE
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