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willprevale 
Posts: 0
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| 22 Dec 2005 11:15 AM |
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Who........ Spc Joseph A. Lucas
What....... Service and escort
Where......Lakeside Baptist Church. State Hwy 1 & SR 126 in S. Carolina
just across the Georgia, S.C. border.
When.......Tuesday, Dec. 27th at 11:00 AM
Please let me know if you're planning to attend. email me for specific directions
willprevale@patriotguard.org willprevale@yahoo.com |
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Zippy
Posts: 6646
Phoenix, AZ
National Forum Admin
User Accounts Admin
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| 14 Dec 2006 11:28 PM |
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willprevale User is Offline
Posts: 1234
Ga.
28 Dec 2005 3:17 PM Delete Edit Quote Reply Alert
As usual, dawn broke with frost on windows and a crunch underfoot. I had spent the night with Road Dust and his wife (heretofore known as Lois Lane and Jimmy Olsen) so I could ride Jim's VTX. He said we'd leave at 6:00am but as it turned out, Jim doesn't do coffee (BOOO!!!) so we headed out at 5:30 instead.
First stop was exit 82 where we picked up Cliff and some wayward bird from Indanna that goes by the name Rain Man aka freeatlast, aka Joe Cobb. Seems he earned that title during a RFTW ride in several days of rain. He brought his bike down with him for the express purpose of joining the ride. Cool dude. From there we rode to Exit 5 in S.C. to pick up what I thought would be my co captain and a "few" other riders. Right! The S.C. faction turned out in surprising numbers. By the time we assembled for pre ride briefing we had well over twenty riders. Not bad for a weekday mission. I asked Jim if we had any more waiting at the church and he kinda gave me one of his legendary grins and said... "well, maybe a few more". Imagine my shock when we pulled en masse into the church parking lot. By the time somone counted, we had 58 riders plus one lone friend of the family I invited to ride with us. That made it 59!!! Jim is still recovering from surgery so he pulled rear guard in his van with full size American and POW flags waving in the breeze.
Scott Cochran from US Riders was there waiting to interview me. That business being finished in short order, we made the final procession arrangements. We rode behind the military vehcles. It was about a ten mile ride to the cemetery. The police did an admireable job of traffic control and things went smoothly.
We escorted the funeral to the grave site where we pulled our bikes off to the side. We have a lot of veterans that wanted to stay and save for a few, we did. There under the noon day sun, with the sound of taps playing softly in the distance, Spc Joseph A. Lucas was laid to his final rest. Needless to say, it was a somber event.
The good news is that t was uneventful. Certain parties had planned on attending but my guess is, it was too cold for them. I met a lot of great people from patch holders to citizens (pics to follow in mission reports). Everyone was cooperative and friendly. That S.C. group was amazing. I won't name any for fear of leaving some out but you all deserve kudos and compliments for braving the cold and your enthusiasm.
Thank you one and all for making this mission what it was. I'm proud of all of you.
Mission completed Sir
It's amazing what can be accomplished if no one cares who gets the credit.
For those who understand, no explanation is necessary and for those that don't... no explanation is possible.
28 Dec 2005 3:30 PM
Twister User is Offline
Posts: 1645
Broken Arrow, OK
28 Dec 2005 3:23 PM Delete Edit Quote Reply Alert
Wllprevale,
As usual, great ride report. You paint a great picture. It's always so gratifying when so many people come together for a common cause..to honor a fallen hero....Rest In Peace Joseph.
Jeff
"Scooter Sissy" ... What can Brown do for you?
willprevale User is Offline
Posts: 1234
Ga.
28 Dec 2005 3:28 PM Delete Edit Quote Reply Alert
Spc Lucas's plaque arrived in the mail. I will see that it's promptly delivered as soon as I get the adress.
It's amazing what can be accomplished if no one cares who gets the credit.
For those who understand, no explanation is necessary and for those that don't... no explanation is possible.
princejb User is Offline
Posts: 260
SC Ride Captain
28 Dec 2005 6:31 PM Delete Edit Quote Reply Alert
Great ride report. All of us from SC appreciate you showing us exactly how to be calm under extreme pressure. Any time we can join you, we will.
It was my first ride, so let me put this out there for any of you who have not had one yet. It is not a fun thing to be there at a funeral. I know a few others plus myself who ended up becoming very emotional over someone we have never met. Very humbling experiance that makes you realize how great a lot of us have it.
Thank you to all of the Vets that helped keep this country free.
Brandt Prince
USMC 98-06
willprevale User is Offline
Posts: 1234
Ga.
28 Dec 2005 11:07 PM Delete Edit Quote Reply Alert
I was able to contact the spokesperson for the Lucas family. For obvious reasons, they are reluctant to release her adress. However, I did get the spokesperson's adress and will send the plaque tomorrow.
With that. the mission will be finalized.
It's amazing what can be accomplished if no one cares who gets the credit.
For those who understand, no explanation is necessary and for those that don't... no explanation is possible.
28 Dec 2005 11:40 PM
Carolina_Reb User is Offline
Posts: 600
Charleston, SC
29 Dec 2005 3:38 AM Delete Edit Quote Reply Alert
Hey RC!
Help the newbie out ... what's the plaque? How is it paid for?
((I wanna make sure you ain't paying something outta pocket that we should be helping you and/or PGR with))
Sandy
"Lead, follow, or get the hell outta the way"
princejb User is Offline
Posts: 260
SC Ride Captain
29 Dec 2005 6:24 AM Delete Edit Quote Reply Alert
Sandy,
The plaque is something that is presented to the families of the fallen service member. It says: "On behalf of a grateful America and the Patriot Guard Riders, please accept oursincere condolences on your tragic loss. May your pain be tempered by the knowledge that SPC Joseph A Lucas is a true American Hero." Then it has the PGR emblem on the bottom. It is paid for by any revenue created by clicking on the ads on the sides of the website, or by some purchases from the PGR store. Although, if it had to come out of our pockets, I know everyone would be willing to fork up some cash.
Hope it answered your question.
Brandt Prince
USMC 98-06
willprevale User is Offline
Posts: 1234
Ga.
29 Dec 2005 6:34 AM Delete Edit Quote Reply Alert
Au contraire!. The cost of the plaque is coverd by the PGR, not the members.
It's amazing what can be accomplished if no one cares who gets the credit.
For those who understand, no explanation is necessary and for those that don't... no explanation is possible.
Twister User is Offline
Posts: 1645
Broken Arrow, OK
29 Dec 2005 8:43 AM Delete Edit Quote Reply Alert
Here's the plaque. When a mission ride is confirmed, the SC should email me with their name and mailing address along with the soldier's name and rank. If there's time, a minimum of 4 business days, I'll have the plaque made and shipped to the SC so it can hopefully be presented at the funeral.
Will...sorry the plaque didn't get there in time. The cost is covered by PGR through ad clicks and store sales.
Jeff
"Scooter Sissy" ... What can Brown do for you?
29 Dec 2005 8:45 AM
willprevale User is Offline
Posts: 1234
Ga.
29 Dec 2005 8:49 AM Delete Edit Quote Reply Alert
Not a problemJeff. I made contact and it's going out in the mail today.
It's amazing what can be accomplished if no one cares who gets the credit.
For those who understand, no explanation is necessary and for those that don't... no explanation is possible.
avonvicooper User is Offline
Posts: 477
Sumter, SC
South Carolina Perm. Ride Captain
29 Dec 2005 6:42 PM Delete Edit Quote Reply Alert
I just wanted to add once again, how in awe I am of this whole group.
Spc. Joseph Lucas and his family will probably be in my heart for a long time. This having been my first ride.
I will say it again, it was an honor to ride with so many like minded people. To have compassion for a man and his family we have never met. It is truly humbling.
I didn't realize the PGR presented plaques to the family. I am more and more amazed by this wonderful group of people.
God Speed our troops home alive and well,
Vi (Eeyore)
South Carolina Perm. Ride Captain
vicooper@patriotguard.org
Carolina_Reb User is Offline
Posts: 600
Charleston, SC
30 Dec 2005 4:57 AM Delete Edit Quote Reply Alert
Hope it answered your question.
You most certainly did. Thank you very much!!
That is AWESOME!! This is one class act!
PGR ROCKS!!
Sandy
"Lead, follow, or get the hell outta the way"
Carolina_Reb User is Offline
Posts: 600
Charleston, SC
30 Dec 2005 5:02 AM Delete Edit Quote Reply Alert
Posted By Twister on 12/29/2005 8:43 AM
Here's the plaque.
Thank you for showing me! That is PERFECT!!
That's an amazing turn-around time. What a stupendous job this organization does. I'm am truly blown away.
Every day I find yet something else that makes me even prouder to be PGR.
Sandy
"Lead, follow, or get the hell outta the way"
StormCat User is Offline
Posts: 23
Elgin South Carolina
30 Dec 2005 6:10 AM Delete Edit Quote Reply Alert
As one of the SC Riders (well ok, I had my truck that day..) I was also blown away by the number of folks there... I also didn't know about the plaque..what a wonderful idea!!! I've been looking to by some things from the PGR shop anyway, now it means more if I know the money is going towards the plaque as well...
StormCat
I'll believe what I believe, and you can believe what you believe too...
DM-SC User is Offline
Posts: 17
Cayce, SC
30 Dec 2005 3:42 PM Delete Edit Quote Reply Alert
I think the plaque is a really nice gesture.
Now, off to the PGR store...
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Diane "Zippy" Anderson
PROUD Army Mom of SSgt Billy Myers 2nd Cavalry Stryker, Iraq
"...for those who man the battle line, the bugle whispers low, and freedom has a taste and price the protected never know..."
TOU Enforcement Agent
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Zippy
Posts: 6646
Phoenix, AZ
National Forum Admin
User Accounts Admin
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| 14 Dec 2006 11:32 PM |
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ninemark User is Offline
Posts: 83
Summerville, South Carolina
28 Dec 2005 9:19 AM Delete Edit Quote Reply Alert
I just got back from my first mission, i got to tell you all , it was the most heart warming experance i have ever had.
I'am glad i had a dark face shield on my helment, i cryed from the time we left the church till we got to the cemerty, to see all the people that had pulled over to honer ths fallen sholder, the police standing at attention as we rode by.
The ug was not there that i saw, but i still thank God the wife, parents, family and freinds only saw support. in a possivtive way, thank all the brothers and sisters that rode that day, it is a memory that will live in my heart forever.
It (i thought) was a very large turnout, and it at least showed the people and family members of Agusta, Ga. some one cares , some one respects, some one is saddened, some one is free in the world to day because of Spc. Joseph A. Lucas.
He will not be gorgotten in my heart anyway.
Ninemark(sam)Summerville,SC
"What separates a citizen from a PATRIOT is the willingness to commit"
29 Dec 2005 12:37 PM
stratou812 User is Offline
Posts: 1
Augusta,Georgia
28 Dec 2005 10:33 AM Delete Edit Quote Reply Alert
My first mission as well, I had fellt the same, from the moment we entered the church grounds. I still have those feelings as I write.
I am a proud American. What else can I say.
HeyJoe
Augusta,Ga |
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Diane "Zippy" Anderson
PROUD Army Mom of SSgt Billy Myers 2nd Cavalry Stryker, Iraq
"...for those who man the battle line, the bugle whispers low, and freedom has a taste and price the protected never know..."
TOU Enforcement Agent
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Zippy
Posts: 6646
Phoenix, AZ
National Forum Admin
User Accounts Admin
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| 14 Dec 2006 11:33 PM |
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willprevale User is Offline
Posts: 1234
Ga.
28 Dec 2005 12:19 PM Delete Edit Quote Reply Alert
I'm glad you enjoyed it ninemark. I was thrilled to see such a great turnout from the S.C. people. We in Ga.willl be happy to support you in turn anytime you need us.
You guys were instrumental in making that ride so successful. My full report will follw soon
It's amazing what can be accomplished if no one cares who gets the credit.
For those who understand, no explanation is necessary and for those that don't... no explanation is possible.
28 Dec 2005 12:42 PM
Twister User is Offline
Posts: 1645
Broken Arrow, OK
28 Dec 2005 3:19 PM Delete Edit Quote Reply Alert
Thanks for making that mission folks...let me also add, don't expect that feeling to go away. It's the same with every mission ride you make.
Salute,
Jeff
"Scooter Sissy" ... What can Brown do for you?
princejb User is Offline
Posts: 260
SC Ride Captain
28 Dec 2005 6:35 PM Delete Edit Quote Reply Alert
Sam, I have to say thanks to you for giving me that full face mask. It kept a lot of people from knowing I was crying as well. It was great to ride with you.
Brandt Prince
USMC 98-06
willprevale User is Offline
Posts: 1234
Ga.
28 Dec 2005 6:45 PM Delete Edit Quote Reply Alert
ahh but we know who you are.
It's amazing what can be accomplished if no one cares who gets the credit.
For those who understand, no explanation is necessary and for those that don't... no explanation is possible.
avonvicooper User is Offline
Posts: 477
Sumter, SC
South Carolina Perm. Ride Captain
29 Dec 2005 1:47 PM Delete Edit Quote Reply Alert
I also was in tears. To see some 60 riders to escort and honor the family and Spc. Joseph Lucas.
This was also my first mission. I can only imagine the grief felt by those that knew this fine man.
To see so many come out and honor a person they don't even know. To have that kind of compassion for your fellow man. It is an honor to ride with so many like minded people.
When I came home. I had an email from a lady in my town who would like to participate if the need arises in the future. Her husband is a vet and she doesn't ride a motorcycle, but would like to. I am not skilled enough for a passenger on my bike. Maybe someone will be able to take a passenger next time?
We are making a difference. God Speed.
Vi (Eeyore)
South Carolina Perm. Ride Captain
vicooper@patriotguard.org
willprevale User is Offline
Posts: 1234
Ga.
29 Dec 2005 2:46 PM Delete Edit Quote Reply Alert
If she's purty, give her my phone number... ( I didn't say that )
It's amazing what can be accomplished if no one cares who gets the credit.
For those who understand, no explanation is necessary and for those that don't... no explanation is possible.
29 Dec 2005 2:46 PM
DM-SC User is Offline
Posts: 17
Cayce, SC
29 Dec 2005 8:28 PM Delete Edit Quote Reply Alert
Posted By willprevale on 12/29/2005 2:46 PM
If she's purty, give her my phone number... ( I didn't say that )
Dirty ol' man!
29 Dec 2005 8:29 PM
Electra Glide User is Offline
Posts: 5
augusta, ga
31 Dec 2005 12:04 PM Delete Edit Quote Reply Alert
i wasn`t a member on this mission with you all but am now and it felt really good that i could a little something for one of our fallen heros who has given me the privilige to ride in such a great nation.
johnny
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Diane "Zippy" Anderson
PROUD Army Mom of SSgt Billy Myers 2nd Cavalry Stryker, Iraq
"...for those who man the battle line, the bugle whispers low, and freedom has a taste and price the protected never know..."
TOU Enforcement Agent
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