Anyone who has ever been to a veteran’s funeral with an honor guard present will immediately recall the sound of the rifle volley just before the playing of Taps and the folding of an American flag.  

That volley is an announcement to all who can hear it that a Veteran has passed and is being remembered.  

On Friday, Sept. 6, 2024, at the home of Steve and Christina Friedman, it was the rumble of motorcycles that defiantly announced that the memory of Teddy Friedman would not be forgotten. 

The roar of the motorcycles from Tribute to the Troops could be heard long before they could be seen driving into the neighborhood and pulling up into the cul-de-sac in front of the long winding driveway of the Friedman family.  The more than 30 riders parked their bikes and gathered together to walk in unison to meet the more than 30 family and friends of Teddy Friedman to honor his memory.   

Almost every bike had a passenger and those who could not ride, drove, so approximately 70 members of the organization Tribute to the Troops were present.  The ceremony was a part of weekend long North Annual Ride from Blaine to Camp Ripley in Little Falls.  The ride was organized by the North Region chapter.     

The mission of Tribute to the Troops is “to honor, treasure, and remember the sacrifices of our post-9/11 fallen heroes and their families.”  Co-Founder and Country music singer Rockie Lynne emceed the event.  

Lynne began by addressing the parents of Teddy Friedman, thanking them for allowing Tribute to the Troops to come to their home.  

“Thank you for sharing this moment with your family and your children and your grandchildren,” Lynne said.  “It is our honor to be here and to pay tribute to your family’s sacrifice and continuing sacrifice to our nation.” 

Gold star families presented the Friedman’s with gifts to honor and remember Teddy – gold dog tags, a charcoal rubbing of Teddy’s gravestone, leather bands, clay hearts, keychains with charms, and a plaque.  The plaque was presented by North Region Chairman Timothy Freeman.  On it was this inscription, “In remembrance of his everlasting call to bravery, honor, and sacrifice in the name of country and duty.  We realize the hardship you have endured on behalf of our great nation.  We want you to know that the wounds that you continue to carry in your hearts and minds will never be forgotten.”

With the occasional cry of a baby singing out in the background, Lynne spoke about the life of Teddy Friedman.  Lynne highlighted the faith and love of the family that gave life to Teddy, the third child out 11 children.  He talked about his life, his marriage to Macy and the birth of his daughter Kinley, his military service and his passing on October 9, 2021. 

Lynne concluded his speech by summarizing Teddy’s life. 

“Teddy Friedman worked at Becker Furniture World.  He was born to a momma who wasn’t even supposed to have a baby and to a daddy proud enough to make a home and school him here. He met a girl, had a beautiful baby.  He believed in the Lord.  It’s because of men like Teddy Friedman that we are free.” 

That’s why Tribute to the Troops visited the Friedman’s on Friday.  To say thank you and to remember the sacrifice of people like Teddy Friedman.  The event also gave permission to those who have lost loved ones who have served to continue to grieve.  It gave everyone a place to remember and mourn their passing because grief doesn’t just go away.  It stays with those who survive who continue to learn how to deal with their loss. 

The Friedman’s closed by thanking the crowd.  Christina tearfully stated, “You don’t know what this means to us.  It means more than I can say.”  

Teddy’s father Steve, clearing his throat said, “He (Teddy) was a brave person willing to give his life for his country.  We miss him every day, but we really appreciate everyone being here today to recognize his contribution.”