A funeral procession was held Thursday in Mankato for a man who died in a Black Hawk helicopter crash late last year.

Sgt. Cade Wolfe, 24, was one of five army special operations soldiers who died when the helicopter crashed in the Mediterranean Sea in November. As previously reported by 5 EYEWITNESS NEWS, the Department of Defense (DoD) says the crash happened when the helicopter was “conducting aerial refueling training” and wasn’t the result of any enemy or hostile actions.

The DOD said Wolfe enlisted in the Army in 2018 as a 15T UH-60 Black Hawk Repairer and was assigned to the 25th Combat Aviation Brigade at Wheeler Army Airfield in Hawaii after he completed advanced individual training (AIT). He later served as an MH-60M Black Hawk crew chief.

Thursday’s procession started at the Mankato Airport and ended at Northview Mortuary.

Wolfe’s career includes multiple awards and decorations, including two Army Commendation Medals, an Army Achievement Medal, an Army Good Conduct Medal, a National Defense Service Medal, a Global War on Terrorism Medal, a Noncommissioned Officer Professional Development Ribbon, an Army Service Ribbon, an Overseas Service Ribbon and the Basic Aviation Badge.

Late Thursday morning, Gov. Tim Walz announced he has ordered all U.S. and state flags at all state buildings to fly at half-staff from sunrise to sunset on Friday, Jan. 5 in honor of Wade’s memorial.

“Minnesota is deeply saddened by the loss of Sgt. Cade Michael Wolfe, a Minnesotan who dedicated himself to selflessly serving our nation and keeping our country safe. With deep gratitude, Minnesota recognizes Sgt. Cade Michael Wolfe for his dedicated service to, and sacrifice for, his state and country. His family, lovde ones, and community are in our prayers.”

Gov. Walz