U.S. Army Spc. Garrett Fant's body to arrive in Reno tonight

Submitted by Editor on Wed, 10/05/2011 - 12:21pm

The body of U.S. Army Spc. Garrett Fant, who was killed on Sept. 26 in Afghanistan, will arrive at Reno Tahoe International Airport later tonight. Heavy snow forced the change. Family and friends left the Lake Tahoe Airport along with military personnel at around 6:45 p.m.

Fant, 21, died in Helmand Providence, Afghanistan after being wounded by an Improvised Explosive Device on September 26. Spc. Fant was assigned to the 4th Squadron, 4th Cavalry Regiment, 1st Heavy Brigade Combat Team, 1st Infantry Division, in Fort Riley, Kansas. Spc. Fant, was an indirect fire infantryman who was on his first deployment. His awards included the combat infantryman's badge, NATO medal, Afghanistan campaign medal with one campaign star and the Army service ribbon.

His body is to be taken tonight from Reno to McFarlane Mortuary in South Lake Tahoe, which will be led by a procession of law officers and veterans groups from around the region. On Thursday, October 6, 2011 there will be a public viewing at McFarlane Mortuary during the hours of 4-7pm.

On Friday, October 7, 2011 services will be at 10 a.m. at Sierra Community Church. Following services Friday afternoon the public is invited to a celebration of life at Classic Cue. There will be displays of photos and flowers, with music by the Cash Only Band. The American Legion Auxilliary and the South Tahoe Chamber of Commerce will supply food and refreshments.

For questions regarding donations for the celebration, please contact Shelby Martin at (530)318-9857
 
Spc. Garrett Fant was one of a kind. A true American Hero. He enjoyed the company of friends and family, and always inspired and encouraged everyone around him to live like there is no tomorrow, said Martin.

In lieu of flowers, Spc. Garrett Fant wished all donations go to The Fisher House Foundation, www.fisherhouse.org