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Patriot Guard Riders Forum
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Hugo 
Posts: 144
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| 08 Mar 2006 6:08 AM |
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The weather was very cold and wet when a rain/snow/ice mix entered the area on Sunday as many members came in early to the very hospitable Days Inn to spend the night. Monica, an employee of Days Inn who learned about the PGR from Kentucky Woman, took it upon herself to give PGR members a generous discount, and then informed her boss, Judy, who whole-heartedly agreed after learning of our purpose. They were later presented with a plaque donated by Triker, and then joined us in our tribute the next day.
Many of us then went to Gordo’s Taco Shop – a small, friendly restaurant owned by a PGR member. He’s usually closed on Sunday, but he and his crew opened up just for us, and we're glad he did! Absolutely awesome food and great service and atmosphere! Thank you Gordo!
Monday morning – we all arrived at the staging area where hot coffee, hot chocolate and cookies were provided by the local American Red Cross. We had our meeting and the Police escorted approx. 135 bikes and over 200 cars to the Church where some of us lined the drive going into the Church with bikes and flags, and the rest of us created a wall around the circle drive at the entrance. The “uninvited guests” apparently had a change of heart because, even though they were in town, they never showed up.
Many members were shaking from the cold and dealing with frozen hands, but no one complained. They held their positions, said prayers, and proudly waved over 200 American flags – over 50 of them 3x5 or larger. As Sgt. Jones was carried out for his last ride, tears rolled, salutes were rendered, and it was extremely evident that we were all united for one common cause. Honor and deep gratitude!
We followed the procession for the 6-8 mile trip through downtown Kokomo where it was also very evident that the whole community was grateful for, and indebted to this young man’s sacrifice. Thousands of people, young and old alike lined the streets on that cold and rainy morning to pay their final respects to their homegrown Hero. Radio station 92.5 had non-stop coverage from beginning to end, and the local Fire Dept. displayed a huge American flag over the street. A trip and a Hero we will never forget.
We then converged on the VFW Post 1152 where we were treated to free hotdogs and such, and were privileged to enjoy the company of the family as they returned from the cemetery. Mom was very clear that she wanted us there with her and considered us all family.
I was honored to present Mom with the PGR plaque and became overwhelmed with emotion, and for once in my life, could not speak. Tears ran down my cheeks as I fought to read the inscription on the plaque, which she graciously accepted. I then gave her a very big hug from us all!
I would like to give a very big thank you to all who were there, and to those who couldn't be there except in spirit. Many of you had to overcome some sizable obstacles to be there. We were represented by Indiana, Illinois, Ohio, Kentucky, Wisconsin, and Michigan. We were also represented by groups such as the Abate, Hog, ALR, Star Riders, VVA, Rolling Thunder, HCVVO, Marine Riders, Blue Star Moms, Red Knights, The Wall Gang, and several members from local Fire and EMS as well as active members from our Armed Forces.
A special thank you to Terry McCray, Rhonda, Kirk Daniels, Bob Clugh, Denis Good, Hero and Richard Wilbur for all of their help. Another special thank you goes out to all of the residents and businesses of Kokomo for their hospitality. You have a great community and should be very proud! Also to all of the Law Enforcement People and everyone who made this mission an honorable one for Sgt, Rickey Jones and his family. It was truly a group effort and I for one am very proud of you all!
Rest in Peace, Sgt. Rickey Jones. You will not be forgotten!
Hugo
Ride Capt.
The weather was very cold and wet when a rain/snow/ice mix entered the area on Sunday as many members came in early to the very hospitable Days Inn to spend the night. Monica, an employee of Days Inn who learned about the PGR from Kentucky Woman, took it upon herself to give PGR members a generous discount, and then informed her boss, Judy, who whole-heartedly agreed after learning of our purpose. They were later presented with a plaque donated by Triker, and then joined us in our tribute the next day.
Many of us then went to Gordo’s Taco Shop – a small, friendly restaurant owned by a PGR member. He’s usually closed on Sunday, but he and his crew opened up just for us, and we're glad he did! Absolutely awesome food and great service and atmosphere! Thank you Gordo!
Monday morning – we all arrived at the staging area where hot coffee, hot chocolate and cookies were provided by the local American Red Cross. We had our meeting and the Police escorted approx. 135 bikes and over 200 cars to the Church where some of us lined the drive going into the Church with bikes and flags, and the rest of us created a wall around the circle drive at the entrance. The “uninvited guests” apparently had a change of heart because, even though they were in town, they never showed up.
Many members were shaking from the cold and dealing with frozen hands, but no one complained. They held their positions, said prayers, and proudly waved over 200 American flags – over 50 of them 3x5 or larger. As Sgt. Jones was carried out for his last ride, tears rolled, salutes were rendered, and it was extremely evident that we were all united for one common cause. Honor and deep gratitude!
We followed the procession for the 6-8 mile trip through downtown Kokomo where it was also very evident that the whole community was grateful for, and indebted to this young man’s sacrifice. Thousands of people, young and old alike lined the streets on that cold and rainy morning to pay their final respects to their homegrown Hero. Radio station 92.5 had non-stop coverage from beginning to end, and the local Fire Dept. displayed a huge American flag over the street. A trip and a Hero we will never forget.
We then converged on the VFW Post 1152 where we were treated to free hotdogs and such, and were privileged to enjoy the company of the family as they returned from the cemetery. Mom was very clear that she wanted us there with her and considered us all family.
I was honored to present Mom with the PGR plaque and became overwhelmed with emotion, and for once in my life, could not speak. Tears ran down my cheeks as I fought to read the inscription on the plaque, which she graciously accepted. I then gave her a very big hug from us all!
I would like to give a very big thank you to all who were there, and to those who couldn't be there except in spirit. Many of you had to overcome some sizable obstacles to be there. We were represented by Indiana, Illinois, Ohio, Kentucky, Wisconsin, and Michigan. We were also represented by groups such as the Abate, Hog, ALR, Star Riders, VVA, Rolling Thunder, HCVVO, Marine Riders, Blue Star Moms, Red Knights, The Wall Gang, and several members from local Fire and EMS as well as active members from our Armed Forces.
A special thank you to Terry McCray, Rhonda, Kirk Daniels, Bob Clugh, Denis Good, Hero and Richard Wilbur for all of their help. Another special thank you goes out to all of the residents and businesses of Kokomo for their hospitality. You have a great community and should be very proud! Also to all of the Law Enforcement People and everyone who made this mission an honorable one for Sgt, Rickey Jones and his family. It was truly a group effort and I for one am very proud of you all!
Rest in Peace, Sgt. Rickey Jones. You will not be forgotten!
Hugo
Ride Capt.
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A Hug is a handshake from the Heart. |
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jgreiner
Posts: 2095
West Lafayette, IN
Ride Captain
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| 08 Mar 2006 6:49 AM |
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Posted By gordo on 03/07/2006 10:37 AM
This will be short. I am so very proud of the people of Kokomo and the PGR. You guys and gals will always have an open door here. I appreciate all the nice things that have been posted about the food/staff/etc. It was our pleasure. We have a confession of sorts, I previously posted that we would offer a 50% discount to all PG Riders. Hugo and I discussed it and instead of the discount we decided to set aside half of the days take to go to the family of our Kokomo Hero. Well, I decided that doing things halfway wasn't the way it should be done. Gordo's will be donating the entire day's proceeds plus the $100.00 that was dropped in the donation jar to SGT Jone's family. You folks went so far out of your way - this is our way of thanking you for your service to our community. Kokomo will soon return to normal - but it will never be the same. THANKS! RIDE PROUD - RIDE SAFELY
Gordo:
You are truly a class act. Count me in as a patron of yours from now on. in fact, once the weather warms, a group of Legion Riders that I ride with take a Wednesday night spin each week when the weather isn't too bad. I am going to INSIST that your establishment become a stop that we make for dinner on occassion. And if you are ever in the Lafayette area, and need anything...don't hesitate to ask.
Jeff |
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Jeff Greiner
Indiana Rolling Thunder
Chapter 4
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jgreiner
Posts: 2095
West Lafayette, IN
Ride Captain
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| 08 Mar 2006 6:56 AM |
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Hugo:
We all need to thank YOU for the excellent job you did in organizing us during the day. This was my first mission. I PRAY it will be my last, but I will respond whenever I am needed. It is leaders like you that make things like Monday work, and work well. Thank you again for all your efforts, you represented us in STELLAR style!!
Jeff |
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Jeff Greiner
Indiana Rolling Thunder
Chapter 4
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jif48
Posts: 401
Marysville Ohio
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| 08 Mar 2006 7:03 AM |
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Well said Hugo. You and all those (my appologies for not being able to name you) playing a part in organizing and carrying out this mission under less than ideal conditions made us all proud to be there and being your fellow members.
Butch. |
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Respect for the military has sometimes been lost. This should not happen again....ever.
The hero is one who kindles a great light in the world, who sets up blazing torches in the dark streets of life for men to see by.
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baldemt
Posts: 173
Russiaville Indiana
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| 08 Mar 2006 8:03 AM |
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| Gordo, Thank You.!!!!!!! As the song goes: "All gave some, some gave all". God Bless you and I hope to ride with you some day ( I live locally). |
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Anyone, then, who knows the good he ought to do and doesn't do it, sins. James 4:17
Support our Troops!! |
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terry46901
Posts: 94
Kokomo,IN
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| 08 Mar 2006 9:41 AM |
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Although my fingers and toes were nearly frozen my heart remained very warm on Monday at the funeral for Sgt Rickey Jones. I was just overwelmed at the outpouring of care and respect of the people of Kokomo, IN that I am at a loss for words. The PGR and all the other groups present also have my upmost respect too. Thanks to all of you who showed up under such bad weather conditions to show your respect for this American Hero. This was not just for Rickey but it was a show of respect and thanks for all of our military both past and present that fight for and protect our freedom. If it were not for them we would not have what we as Americans are free to have. THANK YOU ALL.
Hugo and Richard a very special thanks to you two for allowing me to be a part of this I will never forget it and will gladly be there to assist you or anybody else if ever needed again. As you know this had a special meaning for me and it was a huge help in my own healing process. Words just don't seem to be enough but THANK YOU from the bottom of my heart.
And to the citizens of Kokomo and Indiana I have never been prouder to see your support for anything so important Thank You for all that was done by the many citizens and businesses in the area it was a credit to our great nation. Thanks too to all the out of state riders who were in attendence you showed all of us here locally that respect that the family of Rickey so much deserve.
With tears in my eyes and warmth in my heart I thank all of you and must say that I AM PROUD TO BE AN AMERICAN and proud to have had the oppoptunity to have stood by so many more PROUD AMERICANS on Monday.
Terry McCray |
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ultracobbie
Posts: 33
Fort Wayne, IN
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| 08 Mar 2006 2:04 PM |
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This was my first mission and it was awesome. My sincere thanks to all of you. It appears that there will be another mission this Saturday in Flushing, MI for Sgt. Joshua Youmans. As soon as all the details are posted I will start my planning to go from Fort Wayne.
God Bless all of you,
Steve (ultracobbie) |
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rclugh
Posts: 95
Lafayette IN
IN Sr Ride Captain
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| 08 Mar 2006 6:52 PM |
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Hugo,
Good Job!!!!
That is for all the support you rounded up, Red Cross & their coffee, Flags from up north (can't remember where you got them), adjusting the plans ON THE FLY (don't you just hate that!) and just being one hell of a Patriot Ride Captain!!!! And just so you know, it wasn't any easier for me presenting the plaque to the Frantz family......
You know where I am if you ever need me.
Terry46901- We are here for you too. I wish we had been there earlier.......
I hope and pray that we will never have to come together for another mission but I am sure that is far from the truth. Knowing that, this is ONE HELL OF AN ORGANIZATION and I am Proud to be part of it and riding/standing shoulder to shoulder with EACH of you!
Bob
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Nimrod
Posts: 3
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| 08 Mar 2006 9:37 PM |
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Darn it, now you've got me leaking again! Glad to hear that so many of you guys were also unable to keep the tears from rolling on that trip back through town. Thought maybe I was the only one being such an old softy. That show of respect and caring was just unbelievable! Told a friend that it looked like you'd imagine it would be if a president was brought back to a small hometown for burial, but even that wouldn't have the personal feel to it that the people showed while standing in that cold rain for such a long time.
Funny the things that get to you. I held it together OK even seeing the family come out and watching the casket loaded into the hearse, but seeing the whole town out there along that route, there was just no way to hold back.
I can only repeat the sentiment of those above who said the experience changed them. I never served (rejected for extreme nearsightedness in '63), but my Dad and his Dad both served in Europe in WW's I and II, and the wife's younger brother was lost due to injuries suffered in Viet Nam while a member of the 101st.
Thanks to all who had any part in the tremendous demonstration of appreciation and support. And thanks for the PGR and the opportunity to be a small part of it. I only wish that every soldier could return to that kind of appreciative welcome and live to see it! As far as I'm concerned, every person who steps forward and puts on the uniform is a hero, as they all know they're only an assignment away from putting their lives on the line for their country.
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Shovelhead78
Posts: 4
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| 10 Mar 2006 5:06 AM |
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Just wanted to say thanks to all. Great Job. Terrific to meet some of you.
KFipps |
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oneguy
Posts: 98
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| 10 Mar 2006 1:19 PM |
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WOW, what a honor it was to participate. I don't think I have ever been that moved. Worth every bit of effort and I will participate again when needed.
Ping: kentuckywoman - I still have the car flag you loaned me. I will make sure you get it back.
I did take a few pics that can be seen here:
http://spaces.msn.com/bobsgarage/ |
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antydeb
Posts: 2
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| 11 Mar 2006 12:14 PM |
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I want to thank Desertrose and the Petersburg business that gave the flags. I also want to thank everyone that helped put the flags together. I want to thank Gordo and his staff.
I am really proud to be a PGR member. You are a wonderful group of Americans. I can not explain how it makes me feel when I read the post.
Thank you all,
antydeb |
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VenturaCowboy
Posts: 554
Houston, TX
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| 13 Mar 2006 6:36 PM |
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Retiring thread to Archives. Excellent job, well done Patriot Guard Riders!
Rest In Peace Sgt. Jones. |
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Kurt "VenturaCowboy" Mayer
Public Relations, National Director (Retired)
Patriot Guard Riders
KD5FZV
"It ain't whatcha do but the way whatcha do it!"
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690MedCo
Posts: 4048
Huntington Beach, CA
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| 23 Aug 2007 9:20 PM |
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Thank you for your dedicated service and sacrifice to defend this great country of ours!! Our thoughts and prayers are with you, your family and friends. You will never be forgotten! Rest in peace young soldier.
Glen & Linda |
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Glen Owsley
SP4 U.S. Army 1976-1979
Medical Specialist
690th Medical Co (amb)
34th Medical Btn
Ft Benning, GA
U.S. Army Reserve (IRR)1979-1982
Patriot Guard Rider
Leave No Veteran Behind!
Blessed are the peacemakers, for they shall be called the children of God. Matthew 5:9
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