Posted: 9/7/05
Arcand remembered as 'an American hero'
Jennifer Kern
Staff Writer
As PFC Elden Arcandís casket was escorted into Maranatha Assembly of God Church at his funeral on Friday, dozens of military men and women formed a line and saluted the fallen soldier. Some in uniform and others just there to pay their respects, all stood at attention to honor Arcand.
A Forest Lake High School graduate and a ěproud soldier,î as described by his platoon leader, Arcand, 22, was killed following a vehicle crash last month in Iraq.
On Friday, he was paid tribute as a son, brother, friend and soldier.
Remembering a life
Patriotic music filled the church as fond memories of Arcand were recalled and condolences were given to his parents, Kelly and Chris Freudenberg, of Forest Lake, and David Arcand, of White Bear Lake.
The service was officiated by Pastor Mike Haseltine, who asked those in attendance to share stories about Arcand.
One friend spoke of her trip to see Elden after he graduated from military basic training. She recalled that Arcand had changed both mentally and physically.
ěHe loved what he had become,î she said.
Another friend recalled Eldenís impersonation of actor/comedian Robin Williams, which he noted was ěthe best.î He also mentioned a vacation the two friends were organizing.
ěWe were planning a trip to Vegas,î he noted.
Honoring a soldier
American Legion Post 225, as well as V.F.W. Post 4210, both of Forest Lake, performed special ceremonies at the funeral in honor of Arcand.
His platoon leader, Sergeant Okendo, spoke highly of the Forest Lake soldier. Though Arcand had only served in his unit for a short time, Okendo commended his work ethic and pride for his job.
ěHe made an impact for others to follow,î he recalled.
Pastor Haseltine reminded those in attendance of a unique connection that Arcand had with his namesake, his great uncle who had died while serving in the Battle of the Bulge during World War II. Both men died one month before their 23rd birthday.
ěAmerican soldiers, theyíre an incredible thing,î noted Haseltine, ěElden is before us an American hero.î
In addition to words of praise, soloist Barry Trimble sang ěGod Bless the U.S.A.,î saluting Arcandís efforts in the military.
Coping
Delivering her sonís eulogy, Kelly Freudenberg said turning to her faith has helped her cope during such as trying time in her life.
Though she stressed she will have difficult moments ahead in the future without Elden, Freudenberg said she is thankful for the 22 years she was able to spend with her son and knows that his spirit will continue.
ěThe only thing that died on Aug. 21, 2005, was his earthly body,î she mentioned, ěHis spirit, who he is, lives on for all eternity.î
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