War in Iraq Coverage from National Public Radio Discuss the conflict Photos A soldier laid to rest Pfc. Edward James Herrgott More from MPR A death in Baghdad (07/14/2003) Your Voice Join the conversation with other MPR listeners in the News Forum.

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Funeral held for first Minnesotan killed in Iraq
July 15, 2003

St. John's Lutheran Church in Shakopee, where funeral services were held Tuesday for Pfc. Edward James Hergott. (MPR Photo/Mark Zdechlik)

Shakopee, Minn. — (AP) - About 300 people filled St. John's Lutheran Church here Tuesday for the funeral of Pfc. Edward James Herrgott, the first Minnesotan killed in the war in Iraq.

Herrgott, 20, was guarding the National Museum in Baghdad on July 3 when he was shot and killed by a sniper.

	Pfc. Edward James Herrgott

The Rev. Gerold L. Sevig said Herrgott died while serving his country. "He was willing to put his life on the line for the well-being of others," Sevig said.

Gov. Tim Pawlenty and first lady Mary Pawlenty were among those at the funeral.

Herrgott was the son of Marcia and Edward Herrgott, of Shakopee. He was born and grew up in Shakopee and graduated from Shakopee High School in 2001.

As of Monday, 220 U.S. soldiers had died since the beginning of operations in Iraq, including 82 since President Bush declared May 1 that major combat operations had ended, according to the Pentagon. The British government has reported 42 casualties.

Herrgott was buried among the pine and ash trees in a cemetery on the edge of town.

Red, white and blue balloons were released into the air above the cemetery and soldiers followed that with a 21-gun salute.

Brad Schimek was among the dozens of young people at the funeral. The 17-year-old said Herrgott's decision to join the Army had a big influence on him.

"After this, I'd like to join, so I can stand up for who I am," Schimek said.

(Copyright 2003 by The Associated Press. All Rights Reserved.)

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