The family of U.S. Army CWO-3 Herbert S Rand III requested Patriot Guard Riders and American Legion Riders provide an escort of his cremated remains from Seattle to Kansas City (Leavenworth National Cemetery, Leavenworth, Kan). This is referred to as a “Pony Express” mission.
On Sept. 18, we American Legion Riders of Post 22, rode to Sturgis, S.D., and then to Alzada, Mont. to receive Herbert's urn. flag and plaque from the Montana Patriot Guard. We then escorted his remains from Alzada to American Legion Post 311 in Piedmont, S.D.
Tomorrow, Sept. 19, the ALR will escort Herbert's remains to Vivian, S.D., where they will be transferred to the ALR and Patriot Guard from eastern South Dakota for onward relay to Kansas.
Herbert 'Skip' Smythe Rand III, a 76-year-old veteran and ex-police officer, died on July 28, 2023. He was born in Bangor, Maine, to Herbert S. Rand Jr. and Wilda Rose (Sucy) Rand. Skip served in the Army during the Vietnam War as a Cobra helicopter pilot. He received several commendations, including a Purple Heart, and later trained future pilots.
After over two decades in the military, Skip retired. He then worked as a police officer and an air traffic controller. Toward his career's end, he designed rural water systems. His varied roles demonstrated his skill set and dedication to his community.
Skip was known for his storytelling and engaging personality. He was passionate about fishing, spending his free time on the water to relax and connect with nature.
Those who knew Skip remember him as a respected individual, and his passing will be deeply felt. His loved ones remember his passion for the sky and fishing.
