Many regard him as the face of the American Indian Movement.  Russell Means died Monday morning after a year long battle with esophageal cancer but what will live on for his followers is his tenacious leadership.  LeRoy Lemos of AIM Colorado says, "Russell Means showed, by example, effective leadership and what it meant to be a freedom fighter, and to stand on the side of the people, no matter what. So, in that sense, it's important we carry on his legacy, that we continue to fight for the same freedoms and the same equality that Russell Means fought for."  AIM Members came from all corners of the Midwest to stand as security for Wednesday's ceremony.  Lemos says Means is a role model for him and that's why he traveled from Denver to pay his respects.  Lemos says, "Russell Means was an active part of the leadership council of the American Indian Movement of Colorado. It was an honor to do security for him over the last 25 years across the country and there was no place else for me or my family to be but here to honor him."  Means' remains were brought to the memorial after a five mile trek on horseback.  One of the ceremonial riders says it started out as a somber trip in the rain but as they neared the town of Kyle he was overwhelmed by a sense of pride.  Alan Reddy says, "Then I figured, it's what he would've wanted; was to ride in like this and have a five-mile ride, and I feel proud to do it. I feel good."  And as people on the Pine Ridge Reservation say goodbye to a close friend and dedicated leader AIM members say they will strive to carry on the legacy of Russell Means by teaching the same values he lived by to future generations.

Brendyn Medina