SCTCC Holds Memorial Service For Fallen National Guard Members

ST. CLOUD -- Students at St. Cloud Technical and Community College honored the memories of the three guard members killed in a black hawk helicopter crash last week.

A memorial service was put on by the Student Veterans of America Club Tuesday morning followed by a moment of silence.

Club President Mitchel Zaleski says they felt this was the right thing to do.

It seemed like an honorable thing to do, especially with the National Guard being very recognizable in Minnesota. It just seemed like a natural thing to do.

The club also provide posters for students and friends to sign with notes of sympathy, that will be mailed to the family members.

Zaleski says while there wasn't a personal connection, it still hits home for many.

It's an emotional time. Even though they were in a different branch than most of us, they were still brothers. It something that hurts everyone to the core.

The posters will be on display next to the Veterans Resource Center on campus this week for anyone to express their condolences.

Twenty-eight-year-old Chief Warrant Officer 2 James A. Rogers Jr., 30-year-old Chief Warrant Officer 2 Charles P. Nord, and 28-year-old Sgt. Kort M. Plantenberg were on board the UH-60 Black Hawk helicopter when it crashed Thursday afternoon near Kimball.

Funeral arrangements for Plantenberg, who is an Avon resident, have been schedule for this Thursday.