Former U.S. Army Veteran Gets Deserving Send Off
Thu, 09/24/2026 - 11:12am
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By:
Rachel Riley - TPD Editor
CRESCO - Former esteemed U.S. Retired Army Veteran, Gene Thorne was escorted to his final resting place with a full escort to the Veteran’s Cemetary in Preston, MN from The Legion Riders Post 135, Osage Legion Riders Post 278, Sheriff Busch from the Howard County Sheriff’s Office, Patriot Guard and the Iowa State Patrol. The Cresco Police also assisted with the escort on the way out of town. Over 25 motorcycles, as well as numerous other vehicles, made their way to the cemetery in Minnesota with Thorne's ashes, which were being carried by his son, Scott Thorne.
Legion members from Post 135 and VFW members from post 4561 conducted the honor guard at the service.
Thorne formerly held the position of commander at VFW Post 4561 in Cresco and was an active participant in the Osage American Legion Riders Post 278. Collaborating with fellow local veterans, he played a pivotal role in founding the American Legion Riders Post 135 in Cresco where he served as the first Commander for the organization, until he was no longer able.
Ride on and ride free Gene!
