2-Nov-2007

Dad passed away at Cloquet, MN on Friday, November 2nd -- D Day plus 63 years 149 days.　 He was one of the original volunteers selected for the 5th Rangers when the unit was formed in 1943.　 He took part in the Invasion of Normandy and participated in every action involving E/5th until he lost his left leg to a land mine while assaulting a German position on February 19, 1945. 　Dad was a proud Ranger to the end.　 In one of his last conversations with a hospice worker he stated his wishes regarding further medical treatment and told them that he was ready to “lead the way”.　 The hospice worker related that conversation to me without realizing the significance of what he had said.　 When I explained the Ranger motto and its history to her she was deeply moved.　 Included in the framed memorabilia on Dad’s wall at the end were both the original Ranger diamond patch and the later 5th Ranger patch.　 　He passed quietly and peacefully with family members present.　 We know he was looking forward to joining the other Rangers who had gone on ahead.　 What a reunion that will be! Boyd Beccue boyd_b@co.kandiyohi.mn.us