To honor a true American Hero, 17 men and women of the Patriot Guard first assembled in Northfield to stand for Scott Brachmann and his family during the Visitation and Funeral Services on a brisk Monday morning, December 19, 2011, and then many joined their fellow PGR members where 43 stood to continue this tribute to his service at the Interment services at Ft. Snelling National Cemetery that beautiful sunny (albeit chilly) afternoon. Although adopted at age 8 from Korea, Scott went on to be a very successful Navy Seal until his retirement from the Navy in 2004, after which he continued service to his country by working with the Department of State High Threat Ambassadors Protection Detail in Bagdad, Iraq, and Afghanistan. He had just returned from duty providing maritime anti-piracy security in the middle east, when he died of a heart attack at age 48. The family expressed their heartfelt appreciation for the participation of the Minnesota Patriot Guard during their time of mourning.
As Geno has said many times, to our active Patriot Guard Members attending missions. "You are the Patriot Guard. You stand for those who can no longer stand for us and our Country. Thank you all for coming out to honor a true American Hero"! Thanks also go to Mike Marotta and Genko Komarec for making this a successful combined mission.
-- Steve Cartwright (Chief)Metro SE Ride Captain
Monday, December 26, 2011
Saturday, December 24, 2011
CW2 Lucas Sigfrid, US Army, Metro
0430 (that’s AM) – On a cold December morning, yet balmy for Minnesotans this late in the year, forty-four Patriot Guard members assembled at Fire Station 1 just outside the gate at Mpls/St Paul Int. Airport. It was a very proud moment to see the dedication in these 44 people that early in the morning. Some had come from so far away they had to leave their home at 2 am.
We were there to bring home CW2 Lucas Sigfrid who was killed doing his duty while serving our country. We awoke one of the firefighters to unlock the door to the fire station so the volunteer from the Armed Forces Service Center could bring in his load of coffee and treats for the family when they arrived. As military personnel and family arrived they were awestruck with all the flags greeting them. Warrant officers from Lucas’ unit were, one being a pilot that was flying with him that night in another helicopter that had to go back and find him after the crash. Brought chills down your back that had nothing to do with the weather. The plane arrived early as the procession formed with escorts to go out on the tarmac to pick up CW2 Sigfrid. We had time to warm up in the fire station and then reform our flagline as the hearse and procession came out the gate and passed through our lines. The Armed Forces Service Center volunteer invited us in to warm up and enjoy the leftover coffee and treats. Seeing this, Lucas’ father, uncle, cousins and friends returned from their parked cars and joined us inside. They just wanted to thank us and talk with us. We all offered our condolences and heard stories about Lucas from a very proud father. This, more than being indoors, helped warm us. To see and feel that what we do has such a positive effect on the families and reinforces why we stand our flagline. We do help them get through these toughest of days.
That afternoon we again gathered at the funeral home in Brooklyn Center for the visitation. Lucas’ widow surprised us by arriving much earlier than scheduled. A hasty flagline was formed as she entered with other family and friends. Over thirty PGR members stood during the evening as many, many family, friends and others came to pay respects. We presented our MN PGR plaque and challenge coins to Lucas’ father and widow followed by the Blue Star Mothers presentation. Our flagline stood till 8:45pm honoring one of our Heroes.
The next morning twenty three Patriot Guard came out for CW2 Sigfrid’s funeral in Mounds View. Our flagline lined the front of the church as the procession from the funeral home arrived escorted by law enforcement officers. The funeral service had a huge attendance by family and guests, including our Governor. As the entire front and side of the church had large windows, our entire flagline was also visible from the church vestibule inside. We all stood tall and respectful and the sight of our flags from inside was impressive. As the service started we stood down and all but six of us left for FSNC. In the church provided warm up room, the church ladies brought us coffee, sandwiches and lemon bars as we waited to reform our flagline. As the military pall bearers carried CW2 Sigfrid from the church our flags blew in the breeze and we honored him with a salute. A couple of us then left to beat the funeral procession to the cemetery.
On arrival at FSNC we went directly to shelter #4 as the flagline was already set up. What a sight, to drive through 40 to 50 flags as we found a place to park. The funeral procession arrived as a brisk wind kept our flags flying proudly. Full military honors were given by the US Army Honor Squad. The Ft Snelling Honor Guard was also there to stand their line. Rest in peace CW2 Lucas Sigfrid. Thank you for your service.
To all of our active members who chose to attend one, or all of this four part mission, I want to thank you. Lucas’ father wants to thank you and said his love goes out to all of you. Remember, what we do matters to these families during their grief. In some way we hope to help them through this. Believe me, we do.
Respectfully,
Larry Myslicki “Slick”
Ride Captain, Metro NE
We were there to bring home CW2 Lucas Sigfrid who was killed doing his duty while serving our country. We awoke one of the firefighters to unlock the door to the fire station so the volunteer from the Armed Forces Service Center could bring in his load of coffee and treats for the family when they arrived. As military personnel and family arrived they were awestruck with all the flags greeting them. Warrant officers from Lucas’ unit were, one being a pilot that was flying with him that night in another helicopter that had to go back and find him after the crash. Brought chills down your back that had nothing to do with the weather. The plane arrived early as the procession formed with escorts to go out on the tarmac to pick up CW2 Sigfrid. We had time to warm up in the fire station and then reform our flagline as the hearse and procession came out the gate and passed through our lines. The Armed Forces Service Center volunteer invited us in to warm up and enjoy the leftover coffee and treats. Seeing this, Lucas’ father, uncle, cousins and friends returned from their parked cars and joined us inside. They just wanted to thank us and talk with us. We all offered our condolences and heard stories about Lucas from a very proud father. This, more than being indoors, helped warm us. To see and feel that what we do has such a positive effect on the families and reinforces why we stand our flagline. We do help them get through these toughest of days.
That afternoon we again gathered at the funeral home in Brooklyn Center for the visitation. Lucas’ widow surprised us by arriving much earlier than scheduled. A hasty flagline was formed as she entered with other family and friends. Over thirty PGR members stood during the evening as many, many family, friends and others came to pay respects. We presented our MN PGR plaque and challenge coins to Lucas’ father and widow followed by the Blue Star Mothers presentation. Our flagline stood till 8:45pm honoring one of our Heroes.
The next morning twenty three Patriot Guard came out for CW2 Sigfrid’s funeral in Mounds View. Our flagline lined the front of the church as the procession from the funeral home arrived escorted by law enforcement officers. The funeral service had a huge attendance by family and guests, including our Governor. As the entire front and side of the church had large windows, our entire flagline was also visible from the church vestibule inside. We all stood tall and respectful and the sight of our flags from inside was impressive. As the service started we stood down and all but six of us left for FSNC. In the church provided warm up room, the church ladies brought us coffee, sandwiches and lemon bars as we waited to reform our flagline. As the military pall bearers carried CW2 Sigfrid from the church our flags blew in the breeze and we honored him with a salute. A couple of us then left to beat the funeral procession to the cemetery.
On arrival at FSNC we went directly to shelter #4 as the flagline was already set up. What a sight, to drive through 40 to 50 flags as we found a place to park. The funeral procession arrived as a brisk wind kept our flags flying proudly. Full military honors were given by the US Army Honor Squad. The Ft Snelling Honor Guard was also there to stand their line. Rest in peace CW2 Lucas Sigfrid. Thank you for your service.
To all of our active members who chose to attend one, or all of this four part mission, I want to thank you. Lucas’ father wants to thank you and said his love goes out to all of you. Remember, what we do matters to these families during their grief. In some way we hope to help them through this. Believe me, we do.
Respectfully,
Larry Myslicki “Slick”
Ride Captain, Metro NE
Wednesday, December 14, 2011
Jason Matson, 12 Dec 2011
This is the completed mission report for the interment of Warrant Officer Jason Matson on Monday, December 12, 2011 at the Mn Veterans Cemetery at Little Falls. Jason served during the wars in Iraq and Afghanistan in the USArmy and had served more than 20 years in the military. Jason was diagnosed with cancer six weeks ago and passed away at Fort Drum New York at the age of 56.
With a couple of members that arrived a little late we had 24 members show up on this Monday morning. It appeared to me that everyone that showed up today was at the cemetery 2 days ago to place the almost 3000 wreaths in front of virtually every marker at the cemetery. Truly a dedicated group. It was great watching the interaction of the members at the staging as everyone seemed to know everyone and to an outsider I am sure it would have looked like a family gathering. I guess that patriotism really is the glue that holds all of us together.
Jason was given full military honors by the Color Guard and by the military. His family told us they were overwhelmed at the funerals they attended where the MNPGR was present and were so grateful that this time we were able to be there for them as Jason's illness took him so quickly and they were having a very difficult time of it. As usual many family members thanked us for being there but the most emotional for all of us was when Jason's wife went down the entire flagline to thank us while still carrying the US Flag given to her by the military
We were asked by the family to line up around the room where the service took place so we could be part of the family and because the family felt some security by our presence. After the service we formed two flag-lines to make an opening for family members to release doves. Some members had not seen that done before but we have been seeing that frequently lately. After the family left we debriefed at the Canteen.
RCIC James Parent
With a couple of members that arrived a little late we had 24 members show up on this Monday morning. It appeared to me that everyone that showed up today was at the cemetery 2 days ago to place the almost 3000 wreaths in front of virtually every marker at the cemetery. Truly a dedicated group. It was great watching the interaction of the members at the staging as everyone seemed to know everyone and to an outsider I am sure it would have looked like a family gathering. I guess that patriotism really is the glue that holds all of us together.
Jason was given full military honors by the Color Guard and by the military. His family told us they were overwhelmed at the funerals they attended where the MNPGR was present and were so grateful that this time we were able to be there for them as Jason's illness took him so quickly and they were having a very difficult time of it. As usual many family members thanked us for being there but the most emotional for all of us was when Jason's wife went down the entire flagline to thank us while still carrying the US Flag given to her by the military
We were asked by the family to line up around the room where the service took place so we could be part of the family and because the family felt some security by our presence. After the service we formed two flag-lines to make an opening for family members to release doves. Some members had not seen that done before but we have been seeing that frequently lately. After the family left we debriefed at the Canteen.
RCIC James Parent
Wednesday, November 30, 2011
Stanley Anderson, 30 Nov 11, Aldrich, MN
Ten members of the Patriot Guard gathered to remember and honor Stanley Anderson for his service to our country. The setting was a small country church, on a gravel road, atop a hill, with the cemetary next to the church. There was a very slight breeze and people commented that the flags were beautiful as they turned up the gravel road and could see the flagline atop the hill. Two members arrived early, and when the hearse arrived, we hopped on the flagline when a 3rd member arrived and joined us. Instead of standing the flagline, we were asked to assist with carrying the casket into the church.
Flag line was established at 10:00 for visitation and stood down during the service, enjoying coffee provided by the ladies of the church. Flag line was reformed as a light snow started to fall, with 6 members positioned in the cemetary, and the other 4 members flanked the pallbearers as Stanley was taken to his final resting place. Military honors were provided by the members of the Wadena VFW.
Stanley's brother came thru the flagline to thank everyone for being there - it was his and Stanley's wish that the PGR be there when the time came. Attendees were also amazed that one brave soul rode his motorcycle from the cities (we won't mention names Geno), and commented on the dedication of the PGR to honor those who serve and have served. Several members joined in the luncheon provided.
Thank you to all who came today - it meant alot to Stanley's family and friends. During a Silver Bay Vet Home visit in July, Stanley and his brother both asked if the PGR would be there when it was time, and we assured them we would be - Stanley was very happy to know that his friends of the MN PG would be there - he loved the monthly vists at the Silver Bay Vets Home and the MN PG was always his favorite group that came to the home - it always brought a smile to his face! His brother commented that now he has to flirt with the nurses and aides there for both he & Stanley and wants to come see us all there when he can.
Tuesday, October 11, 2011
John Bergseid
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
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
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!!
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