Frank Serpico, retired Colonel United States Army, was interred on May 1 at Arlington National Cemetery in Virginia.

Wife Marilyn Serpico was joined by 10 Fountain Hills friends as well as friends and family from across the United States.

This type of military funeral is reserved for soldiers with a rank of Colonel or above up to the President of the United States.

The service was held at the Old Post Chapel Fort Myer.

Bill Hindman, a Fountain Hills friend, commented, “It was an emotional time for all but, as expected from a military family, Marilyn and Sharon (Frank’s daughter) had everything planned, and they executed it flawlessly.”

A band escort led a procession from the service to the cemetery where the flag-covered casket rested on a black artillery caisson.

This was drawn by six strong steeds, four perfectly pressed, controlled soldiers.

Behind the caisson, the Riderless Horse stood with the rider’s boots reversed in the stirrups.

“Our Warrior” will never ride again. The Colonel was announced with a 21-gun salute and bugler.

“Although Frank is gone from our midst, his spirit and sense of pride in God and country will continue to bless us for the rest of our lives, as his memorial tree at the Fountain Hills dog park will continue to grow and provide us with a constant reminder of Frank’s strength and wisdom,” concluded Hindman.