SSGT Irving C Ellingson Comes Home

Words cannot adequately describe the course of today's events.  It was certainly emotional as well as heartwarming and, may I say, truly amazing.   

Today, SSGT Irving C Ellingson, declared missing in action in May 1945, was escorted from Fargo, ND to Grand Forks, near the place where he was born.  And I was invited by his nephew, Lon, to attend the event, along with Marty.  You see, I was the genealogist who located Lon, which was the first step in the process.  And although I don't feel that I deserve any accolades for my small role, Lon was eager for me to attend so that he could introduce me to the family. And, I must say, I am touched by the attention that they have given to me.  So many came up to thank me.  And I felt honored. 

And, I feel very lucky to have been here today, as American Airlines decided to just cancel our flight out of Chicago after several delays. They could not get us a flight for several days.  I debated just going back home, but I had planned some extra time on this trip, and I didn't want to disappoint Lon. So, we rented a car and drove over 900 miles to get here. So, the enthusiasm shown to me was certainly appreciated more than anyone will know. Enough about me...let's get to the story about this amazing day. 

The entire community from these two towns, and in between, were aware of the significance of this day.  Many set out time from their day to honor this local hero. 

The hearse carried the casket, draped with a flag, and led a procession that began with a van filled with immediate family members, followed by countless automobiles and well over 300 motorcyclists at the end.  

I took this photo from the front of the car, and you can see the cyclists lined up in the background.  The group extended far into the distance.

We drove highway 29 north to Grand Forks for well over an hour. The local community had been alerted of the event, and words cannot express the emotions that I felt  as I saw crowds of people who had parked their cars on the sides of the highway in order to stop and offer their respect to this fallen airman. 

Nearly every overpass had an American Legion group represented to offer their respects. 

Imagine the planning and coordination that it must have taken to have so many groups represented.  

The North Dakota Highway Patrol led the procession, and were at intersections in the city of Grand Forks to control traffic for the motorcade to pass by. It was, needless to say, A BIG DEAL!

We finished at Veteran's Park in Grand Forks. 

Irvin's casket was set at the Air Force Memorial in the park.

There were two large canopy tents, filled with white chairs for people to sit upon while dignitaries were presented to offer a few words.  

These included the Mayor of Grand Forks, The Governor of the State of North Dakota Kelly Armstrong, Congresswoman Julie Fedorchak and United States Senator Kevin Kramer.  He had been instrumental in working with 16 other state senators to come up with the necessary means to get these Tokyo Prison Fire casualties identified. 

The Grand Forks City Band was situated under one of the tents and performed the National Anthem, America the Beautiful, Washington Post March, The Flickertail March, finishing with a lively rendition of Stars and Stripes Forever.   

An Echo version of Taps was played at a distance, bringing tears to many eyes. 

The park was bursting  with local residents who had come out to honor Irvin.  The camaraderie was electric, with dozens of family members who had come from far and near to celebrate the return of their lost uncle and cousin.  The story had been carried down to younger generations who were eager to be part of the events as well.  Irvin was one of eight children.  The children of all of his siblings, as well as their children, were determined not to to miss this historic event. 

Among those in attendance who had ridden as honor guards, were members of the Combat Veterans Motorcycle Association.   When DPAA announced a sudden change in the dignified transfer date and time for Irvins' return this week, this group dropped everything to make the 4 hour drive to Minneapolis to be there at 4:45 AM when his plane arrived.  They were determined to be on hand to escort Irvin home. 

The emotions of the day were obvious, as family members, one by one, laid a hand on the casket and offered a private prayer.  Irvin had not been forgotten.  His nephew, Lon, worked long and hard with many organizations to be sure that Irvin received the honors that he deserved. 

Today is only Day 1.  There are two more days of events to honor this airman, and we are looking forward to spending more time with the family tomorrow at the celebration of life. 

I'll be sure to keep you posted. 

Until next time.....