Local Navy Servicemember Honored with Processional Through Decorah Ahead of Funeral

Strong communities start with trustworthy reporting—give to local news now! DECORAH — A processional was held Wednesday, Aug. 20, to return the body of U.S. Navy Mass Communication Specialist 1st Class Ryan James Batchelder to his hometown of Decorah ahead of funeral services next week. Escorted by law enforcement and the Patriot Guard Riders, Batchelder was transported to Helms Funeral Home. The escort followed his arrival in Iowa after his death Aug. 4 at Stanford Hospital in California. In honor of Batchelder, a large American flag was hoisted above College Drive ahead of the processional. Batchelder, 39, enlisted in the Navy at age 27 and rose to the rank of First Class. He served aboard the USS Peleliu and USS Mobile Bay, supported Fleet Week operations in the Pacific Northwest, and later joined the media department of the USS John C. Stennis. At the time of his death, he was stationed at Naval Air Station Fallon in Nevada as Assistant Public Affairs Officer. He is survived by his parents, Jon and Deb Batchelder of Decorah, along with extended family. Funeral services are scheduled for Aug. 25 at Helms Funeral Home, with burial at the Minnesota Veterans' Cemetery in Preston. A separate service will be held in early September at Naval Air Station Fallon. Unlock a world of knowledge! Sign up for free DecorahNews.com newsletters and receive local news, local events and everything that is happening in and around Decorah.