DragonWagon  Posts: 417 Ride Captain St Peters Missouri

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| 14 Sep 2006 11:17 AM |
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Sunday at the Mall. See ya there
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Dragon Wagon Retired USAF MSGT Proud Son Of: Col. (Dr) Robert R. Smith, USAF, Dec. Proud Father of: Major Robert R. Smith III, USAF SSgt Michael F. Smith, USA |
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dkparks  Posts: 12 Granite City, IL
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| 14 Sep 2006 12:37 PM |
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| Is the route from the airport down I-70 East through downtown STL and pick up I-55 there? If I can make it, it would be a little after 5 so it would probably be better if I tried to hook up on 70. |
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padjr  Posts: 265 St. Clair, Mo.

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| 14 Sep 2006 12:46 PM |
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I just got off the phone with NOFEAR6 (Cpl. Shank’s CO), from IRAQ. He wanted to personally thank ALL the Patriot Guard Riders for taking care of Cpl. Jeremy Shank and his family. I assured him that it was truly OUR HONOR to do it and we would do our best. We will watch over Jeremy, his family and loved ones and do any thing we can. I told him we are just so grateful for what they do and Cpl. Shank will be Duly Honored. He said the entire Wolfpack knows what we are doing and are very grateful.
WE do it for THEM!
Jim Padgett |
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Jim Padgett
Winners WIN. Losers negotiate.
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padjr  Posts: 265 St. Clair, Mo.

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| 14 Sep 2006 12:54 PM |
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Is the route from the airport down I-70 East through downtown STL ...? We do not know, The escort for Staff Sgt. Michael L. Deason to Farmington was, but the time of day was not rush hour. We just won’t know until we talk to LEO. |
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Jim Padgett
Winners WIN. Losers negotiate.
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TexasAngel~Jenn  Posts: 143 Houston,Missouri

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| 14 Sep 2006 1:27 PM |
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Guys a friend of mine and her husband live in the town and have offered a place to stay and pitch a tent if need be for anyone who needs it so if you need a place just let me know by friday and I can confirm it with them .. there is a couple already spoken for that will be staying with us there so just let me know ..
(479) 544-3189
Jennifer |
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"A Hero is someone who gets up, even when they can't for the sake of assisting a fallen brother"
Soldiers Angel Comm Leader Chromed Angels
R.I.P In Memory of : DAD: Capt. John David Powers (Air Force) Sgt. Dustin Decol L Cpl Stephen J Perez Priv 1st Class, Amy A. Duerksen
Prayers of hope for a safe return for POW Sergeant. Keith M. Maupin
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rogriley  Posts: 31 Jackson, MO

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| 14 Sep 2006 2:19 PM |
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Randy posted some of this previously, but we have additions to the previous info:
Reduced motel rates for PGR's:
Jackson Inn - 517 E Hwy 61, Jackson MO (573-243-3577) $55 for 2 people - two beds, less for a single Be sure to state you are with PGR and in town for Cpl. Shank This is approx. 5 miles from the VFW staging, but 3 miles from funeral home & approx. 1 mile to church.
Super 8 - 2011 N Kingshighway, Cape Girardeau. (573-339-0808) $62.95 (not sure of the accommodations this covers) Be sure to state you are with PGR and in town for Cpl. Shank This is approx. 1/2 mile from VFW staging.
Victiorian Inn & Suites, 3266 William St. (I-55-& K) Cape Girardeau (573-651-4486) $69 (not sure of the accommodations this covers) Be sure to state you are with the PGR and in town for Cpl Shank This is approx. 3 miles from VFW staging.
My wife will have our truck (maroon & black) with coolers of water and about 30 extra flags for our use while standing guard for Cpl. Shank's family at McCombs Funeral Home, church and cemetery.
The American Legion Post Auxilliary of Jackson will be bringing sandwiches to us at the church.
Standing by, Roger (& Marlene) Riley Jackson MO
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Be Sure What You Are Living For Is Worth Dying For |
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tattootaz  Posts: 176 Spring Lake

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| 14 Sep 2006 2:22 PM |
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| God Bless the family and friends of our fallen hero. PEACE |
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Michigan Region 3 Ride Capt. |
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hambone  Posts: 38 Munford, TN

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| 14 Sep 2006 2:33 PM |
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Will be coming up from Munford, TN. Anyone in the Memphis area wanting to meet and ride up together, or meet along the way, US 51 to Dyersburg over to I-55 up, contact me via email or PM.
Rick |
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Rick Hammer Sgt USMC 91'-99' PGR Veterans Assistance Representative Tipton Co, TN |
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equipman  Posts: 126
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| 14 Sep 2006 3:22 PM |
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| Jim, I to got a phone call this morning at 08:00 from NOFEAR6 myself and my day has not been the same since. I don't care how many good or bad missions we do I don't think I will ever get used to a soldier coming up to me and thanking me for what I do. As I tell them we as PGR member will be there to support them and their families as long as we need to be. We will help them in any way that we possibly can all they have to do is ask. |
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Defender05  Posts: 1
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| 14 Sep 2006 6:40 PM |
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| My deepest sympathy to the Family of Cpl. Shank. Cpl. Shank you are a true hero. From one soldier to another, You are gone but not forgotten. |
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RD  Posts: 176 Cape Girardeau, MO

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| 14 Sep 2006 7:46 PM |
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I'm staring at the cursor wondering how the heck I'm suppose to explain to you what I just experienced. When Jim Shank invited us to participate with his son's funeral, one of the first things he asked was if we were going to help him bring Cpl. Shank home. I simply said 'we're here for you'. When you captain a ride, one of the scariest events is the escort from the airport. Arrangements are last minute - they change. Will anybody show up? Four of us rode to the funeral home together. Then you see them. One bike, then two - then another. A small, but adequate contingent headed out on the two hour drive to St. Louis. On the way we picked up another, then one more. As we broke out of the world's worse traffic jamb and pulled into the cargo area at Lambert, there they were. Our group just doubled. And it continued to grow - one by one, man by man. I think we broke even on the ride home - lost one and gained one. If you haven't had the thrill of tailgating a Missouri State Trooper at 80 miles an hour down the interstate, you've missed out. From my vantage point, especially in a sweeping curve - there, not too far in the distance, another trooper, three PGR big flag bikes and a hearse. Captain Ratcliff drove the family - tough duty. But there we were, a strong string of PGR headlites behind me, all of us, helping Jim Shank bring his son home. I can't thank you people enough. And you St. Louis area guys - thanks for helping me keep my promise. You are angels. Congrats to the citizens in and around Jackson. From the time we left the interstate until we reached the funeral home - people standing by the road with flags. Cpl. Jeremy Shank - welcome home.
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rogriley  Posts: 31 Jackson, MO

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| 14 Sep 2006 8:19 PM |
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Well done. Cpl. Jeremy Shank - Welcome home.
Roger & Marlene Riley |
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Be Sure What You Are Living For Is Worth Dying For |
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hambone  Posts: 38 Munford, TN

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| 14 Sep 2006 9:53 PM |
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For anyone planning on making the run from the Memphis area:
I plan on leaving Munford before 0730 Sunday morning. Staging at the BP station at the corner of Hwy 51 and 206 in Atoka starting at about 0700.
Jim and Barry Cobb of the Ark PGR and their group will be meeting us at the McDonalds In Hayti, MO @ 0900-0915 to be ksu by 0930. That should put us in Jackson well before 1130.
Not set in stone yet, but I should be away from any pc on Sat on the Trail of Tears Run in AL, so if anyone needs to get in touch with me please call my cell @ 901-827-8351. Leave a message if I do not answer.
Rick |
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Rick Hammer Sgt USMC 91'-99' PGR Veterans Assistance Representative Tipton Co, TN |
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allsthrnlady  Posts: 1437 Gravette, Arkansas - NW AR Mission Support Coordinator

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| 14 Sep 2006 10:22 PM |
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| My deepest condolences to the family and friends of Cpl. Jeremy Shanks. Although I will be unable to attend due to my father's (Cpl. Charles Earl Wilson) funeral last Friday, then my mother's funeral yesterday and have many family matters to take care of, please know that my sympathy and prayers go out to you for your loss of this brave young man whom served our country well. I wish I could be there for you Sunday, but since I can't my heart will be. Welcome home Corporal. |
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Mary Ann Putman NW Arkansas Mission Support Coordinator PGR Member # 54583 479-787-0121 allsthrnlady@yahoo.com
Riding in honor of:
Great Great Grandfather (1830-1901)....Civil War Veteran in Union Army, Co I, 43 MO Inf., Reverend James Paris Long;
Grandfather....World War I Army Vet, Paris Leonard Long (1892-1964), WIA and carried bullet 1/4 inch from heart the rest of his life;
Great Uncle....Joseph V. Long (1899-1978) Army Pvt. WWI;
Uncle....World War II Army Vet, Ivan Eugene Long (1921-2002);
Uncle....Olen Richard Long (1923-1944), WWII Army Vet, 313th Regiment in the 79th division infantry, KIA in France;
Uncle....World War II Army Vet, Clifford Leon Long (1925-1979);
Father.... Korean War Vet Army Cpl. Munitions Handler for 21 Fox Co., 24th Div, Charles Earl Wilson (1928-2006);
Uncle....Ret. Naval Warrant Officer Buford "Al" Long (1929-2005);
Uncle....William "Billy" Monroe Long (1931-1950), PFC Light Weapons Infantryman, Hdq. Co. 19th Reg., 2nd Div. Korean War Vet, KIA in South Korea;
High School Friend....Gary Lynn Dent (1950-1971), Army, PFC, Accidental Homicide Ground Casualty, Quang Tin, South Vietnam;
NW AR PGR Ride Captain....Don "Dragonnnnn" Horton (1963-2008). |
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padjr  Posts: 265 St. Clair, Mo.

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| 14 Sep 2006 10:51 PM |
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Just got in from Jackson and the escort for Cpl. Jeremy Shank from Lambert. The Honor Guard was sharp and crisp (expected no less) Jeremy is in good hands. I think the whole town turned out to show their pride in Cpl. Shank. I know his father was deeply touched. Must have been some dust in the air cause several of us rider’s eyes were watering. It was an awesome site; a sea of Flags lined both sides for over a mile. Jeremy is home with his loved ones.
Jim Padgett |
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Jim Padgett
Winners WIN. Losers negotiate.
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rogriley  Posts: 31 Jackson, MO

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| 15 Sep 2006 5:54 AM |
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Following is a link to video feed from KFVS tv on last nights escort for Cpl Shank.
http://www.kfvs.com/Global/category.asp?C=2804&nav=menu51_1
Go to Headlines and you will see "Hundreds Turn Out to Honor Fallen Soldier", click there.
Roger Riley |
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Be Sure What You Are Living For Is Worth Dying For |
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HM1 (AW) USN (RET)  Posts: 1087

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| 15 Sep 2006 3:32 PM |
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ny one seen Merlin on this one? wonder if this'll be my first with out him? Oh well baby birds got to fly sometime. Mission #7 is a go for me out here in Beech Bluff TN. "PGR Punch" four gallons and more water coming ride captain.
Rick, I'll call tonight find a spot to meet up with ya. Merlin if you're coming call me (731) 424-9227 home (731) 313-1678 cell if not at home.
Anyone coming from Jackson TN area, care to meet up in Jackson, send signal (call me). O/W Rick, I will catch you on the road either TN or MO side.
Semper FI
Family and friends- Thank you for inviting us and allowing us to show what your sacrifice means to us as a group and individually. I will be honored to stand at attention and bring a salute to bear. |
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Dennis "DOC" Lee Hospital Corpsman First Class Enlisted Aviation Warfare Specialist United States Navy Retired Ride Captain- All over west TN and sometimes straying into other states as well.
I ride for all those who have gone on to their last port call.
Riding with me: LT TERRY FUSSNER (she was a friend first, navy officer 2nd)
Carlos Hixon (former Doc- killed by a stupid drunk driver - we lost a talented musician who made folks smile)
SmokeyMountainSporty- ( I talk to him when I feel twiggy on the road, gone, but still so very much here with us). |
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flsquest  Posts: 103 Bartlett, TN

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| 15 Sep 2006 5:50 PM |
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After viewing the video clip from last nights mission from St. Louis, I was deeply touched by the strength and attitude of Mr. Jim Shank (Jeremy's father). Theres no doubt he's a man of extremely strong faith, and has a strong belief that his brave son is in the hands of almight God. Mr Shank, I'll be making this mission from the Memphis, TN area, and hope that I'll have the honor to look you in the eyes and share my heartfelt condolences with you personally. May the Lord continue to give your family the strength, and a peace that passes all understanding to get you through this time of grief. God loves you, and I do too!
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"NEVER AGAIN"
Fred Stephens Bartlett, TN |
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redgmcgirl  Posts: 9 north west Tenn.
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| 15 Sep 2006 8:45 PM |
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Our Prayers and thoughts go out to the family of this fine young man. There is no doubt he is in God's hands now, and may He come into your hearts to help you find comfort during this difficult time.
It will be an honor to ride on Sunday.
Standing by in Newbern, TN.
June
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twodogroad  Posts: 5 S.E. MO

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| 15 Sep 2006 9:15 PM |
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| Juust heard on 2200 hrs news at this time I-55 northbound is closed from 14 t0 27 mile marker. It involves 2 semi's and spilled diesel fuel. While it should be cleaned up by morning riders coming up from the south might want check conditions or be very careful. safe rides to all. |
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Vernie Robertson Patterson, MO |
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Leanman  Posts: 158 St. Louis, Mo.

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| 15 Sep 2006 11:46 PM |
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Heartfelt condolences to the family of Cpl. Jeremy Shank. A kid of 18 should have his whole life before him, but instead, he gave it in order that we might be free. God bless you, and comfort your family Cpl. Shank.
I missed the missions last weekend due to other obligations, but I'm gonna try to get myself freed up enough to be able to make this one. Monty, I hope to be riding with you on Sunday.
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Mike Chambers
Trying to pay back a little of what is owed! |
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Preacherman  Posts: 0
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| 16 Sep 2006 6:12 AM |
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| For the family of Cpl Shank, please accept our deepest sympathies from all of Iowa. |
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LycanChezem  Posts: 1
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| 16 Sep 2006 2:44 PM |
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| Jeremy Shank was a friend of mine. I appreciate everyone supporting him on his way to his final resting place. To his family I would just like to send my deepest sympathies. Shank will always be remembered in my mind as a good friend and a good soldier. RIP Shank. |
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gailpd  Posts: 0
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| 16 Sep 2006 4:28 PM |
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Our deepest sympathies and heartfelt condolences to the Shank Family and friends. We will keep you in our thoughts & PRAYERS. |
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equipman  Posts: 126
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| 16 Sep 2006 9:50 PM |
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| As much as it pains me I will not be able to make this mission after all. During a test run of my big flag mounts I developed a very large gas leak on my bike and could not get it fixed. It seems though I am getting better mileage on my bike before I have to take it back to the dealer for another repair. I think I must own a Jag. Anyway I will stop on the hour of the funeral not matter what I am doing and say a prayer for the family and friends of the American hero. Also those of you riding to and from this mission please be safe and return home to you loved ones. We need all of you so we can continue to do the great stuff we do. Out in St.Charles |
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