Major Michael Freyholtz, 13 & 14 Aug 10, Blackduck, MN



13 Aug: Fifteen Patriot Guard escorted Major Michael Freyholtz from the Bemidji airport to Cease Funeral Home in Blackduck. LEO provided escort the entire route both leading the escort and providing security at the end of the procession.

14 Aug: Twenty-six Patriot Guard stood the flag line in honor of Major Michael Freyholtz, age 34 of the Alaska Air Natioanal Guard, who died on 28 July 2010 in the crash of a C-17 aircraft at Elmendorf Air Force Base, Alaska. Services were held at the Blackduck High school and flag line was established prior to visitation and services. RCIC's Wayne & Ken, along with Thief River Falls RC Gary, and Loren & Steve, Blackduck natives & PGR members presented the MN PG plaques and coins to MAJ Freyholtz's parents and 2 children. Govenor Pawlenty and members of the Air Force were also in attendance. Members stood down during the service, while watching a C-17 aircraft from Alaska, MAJ Freyholtz's unit circle overhead. Flag line was resumed on the yellow line of the street, with LEO blocking both ends of the street and flag line was held while MAJ Freyholtz was brought out of the school by an Air Force Honor Guard. Once remains were placed in the hearse, all but 6 members left to establish the flag line at the cemetary in Hines, MN, 5 miles away. 6 MN PG members escorted the procession to the cemetary, during which the C-17 made a low fly-over. It was breezy and the flags snapped in the cool air, under cloudy skies. Flag line was dismissed after family, friends and Air Force members departed the cemetary. Post mission was held at the Blackduck American Legion.

One fun and interesting piece - at the cemetary we all started walking back to our bikes, to find several Air Force members standing by and looking at the bikes - they were waiting for a group photo. We obliged, and then Genko took another picture with all the Air Force members in the photo.

Thanks to all who were able to come and pay respects to Major Frehyoltz.
--
Karla Richardson
Ride Captain, Detroit Lakes Sector &
Northern Region Senior Ride Captain