Veteran
Mission
Report
 

Walter Gronlund, USA, WWII Veteran, Wadena, MN, 12 MAR 10

Sixteen Patriot Guard were able to honor Walter "Wally" Gronlund, for his service to our country during WWII. Wally was an avid supporter of our military and veterans and was proud to have served his country.

It was drizzling as we arrived at the church for the mission briefing and continued throughout the day. We were graciously provided coffee and cookies by the ladies of the church, and the comfort of the library during stand-down for the service. We returned to the flag line for the transfer into the awaiting hearse. At this point, family and friends had a luncheon, and we all headed to Verndale and had a stop at the local café. We then proceeded to the cemetary and were on the flag line before the arrival for interment. Flag line was dismissed after friends and family had departed the cemetary.

Thank you to everyone who were able to come out today from the DL, Brainerd, and Alexandria sectors. Having known Wally since I was a child, I know he was looking down amazed at the dignity, honor and respect that was paid to him today, and I believe he would have been speechless (those of us that know Wally know that he liked to visit with people). He was a very modest man and certainly did not feel he was a hero – he was doing what he was called to do – but he was a hero, our hero. At 19 years old, he was honorably discharged from service, after having participated in the Battle of the Bulge, during WWII. Rest in Peace Mr. Gronlund.

(@) PGR National Thread

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Karla Richardson
Ride Captain, Detroit Lakes Sector &
Northern Region Senior Ride Captain