Photos

Soldiers with Able Company, 2nd Battalion, 136th Infantry Regiment, pray during a memorial ceremony held for Army Staff Sgt. Joshua R., a fire team leader with Able Company, at the Mainside Chapel here September 4. The Dent, Minn., native lost his life August 22, 2006 from wounds sustained while engaging in operations in the restive Al Anbar province. The memorial consisted of the playing of our national anthem, prayer; a scripture read by Justin D. Knopf, a 24-year-old squad leader from Detroit Lakes, a photo slide show, a 21- shot rifle salute and the playing of ?Taps?. An inverted M-16A2 rifle was placed in Hanson?s homage, with a Kevlar helmet resting on top. Engraved identification tags and a crucifix hung from the rifle?s pistol grip. Immediately in front, an empty pair of boots was positioned, while behind the display, the national ensign and battalion colors were displayed. Along the sides were two ammunition cans containing keepsakes from fellow soldiers. The battalion, an Army National Guard unit out of Detroit Lakes, Minn, is currently attached to 1st Marine Logistics Group (Fwd).