Written by Carol McDowell——-
Primghar, Iowa — A picture perfect day in Primghar, IA, greeted an estimated 150 people who showed up to pay final respects to Staff Sgt. Bryon H. Nelson, a Primghar native who was shot down in WW ll over Italy and whose remains were disinterred in 2015 and identity determined by new technology.
The Primghar American Legion had installed about 50 poles and flags in the center of the Primghar cemetery. The Sheldon Fire Department ladder truck and several firemen were present to hoist an oversize American flag on the north end of the cemetery. A gentle breeze moved the flags just enough for maximum effect.
The parade of vehicles entering the cemetery included two county sheriff’s cars, 13 motorcycles of the Northwest Iowa Riders group, several other vehicles, the hearse and two fire trucks. The motorcyclists walked American flags into the burial area site.
The service was conducted by the Iowa National Guard and included a message of redemption, resurrection and reunion by their commander, 21-gun salute by 7 soldiers, and TAPS played by another. A single Army helicopter flew over from east to west over the burial site. Following the committal of the remains, a 21-gun salute and TAPS preceded the folding of the coffin flag and presentation to the family. The fluttering of the flags and the message from the commander were all one heard as the audience mostly stood and paid respects to one who gave the ultimate sacrifice for his country and yet was not personally known to anyone there.
In addition to the National Guard members, many American Legion members from several area posts were present, as were dozens of Primghar and area residents. The family and others met at the Primghar Community Building following the service to visit.
U.S. Army Chinook Helicopter departing Sheldon Regional Airport enroute to Nelson Memorial Service fly-by
Video courtesy of Jill Mouw
