Hundreds of people came out in the wind, rain and snow Sunday afternoon to pay respect to Sgt. Greg Riewer, who was killed in Iraq March 23.
The body of the 28-year-old National Guard soldier was flown into Fargo and then brought to Furey Funeral Home in Frazee, with a brief stop in Detroit Lakes for a service at the Minnesota National Guard Armory.
"We have an American hero here today to honor," Rep. Collin Peterson said.
People lined the streets of Detroit Lakes, Highway 10 and hundreds more in Frazee, including the Frazee Fire Department, standing at attention.
"Our soldiers are the best we have in Iraq," Peterson said. "We want to honor this fallen soldier and his family for his sacrifice."
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Guard Chaplain Lt. Col. Timothy Peterson said, "In this time of grief, we gather to support this family and remember our heavenly father."
He read Psalm 23 as members of all area veteran organizations and citizens stood in silence. Riewer's family members and relatives sat out of the weather under an army tent outside the armory.
During his prayer, the chaplain prayed of Riewer, "Thank you for his sacrifice, thank you for his life.
"Give them good memories," he continued of the family.
He asked for prayer for victory and reconciliation in the war, protection for the soldiers, and "pray for the day all soldiers can come home."
Followed by miles of a vehicle processional, Riewer's body and his family made their way to Frazee. People stood along Highway 10 with flags waving, some saluting, some with their hands over their hearts.
Throughout Frazee, flags and yellow ribbons flew everywhere in remembrance of the Frazee native.
Visitation for Greg Riewer is Tuesday from 4-9 p.m. at Sacred Heart Catholic Church, Frazee, and will resume at noon Wednesday at the Frazee High School. Mass of Christian Burial service is at 2 p.m. at the school.
