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Susan Sturgis 
Posts: 4675
Bear, DE
In Memory of Ed "Old Iron" Barrett
FORUM MODERATOR
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| 27 Jun 2008 7:39 PM |
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MEMORIAL MISSION
SmokyMtnSporty
AKA
JOHN N. DENIAKIS
JULY 5TH, 2008 (Saturday)
It is with a very sad and heavy heart that I must post Tennessee has lost a Patriot Guard Member, John Deniakis, aka SmokyMtnSporty, 33, of Youngstown, OH, but called Louisville, TN home......
John was very active in the Patriot Guard Riders, over the last couple of years riding missions in TN, AL, GA, NC, VA, KY. He rode missions from east to west TN, both Honor missions and Welcome Homes.
He will be sorely missed by all who knew him and loved him..........
STAGING: Saturday, July 5th, 2008, 0815 @ BROWNS CREEK SHOPPING CENTER, 1707 E. LAMAR ALEXANDER PKWY., MARYVILLE, TN 37804. KSU 0930.
Ride Captains: Randy Hall, aka Sportypig, rchall@comcast.net , (615) 400-5389 and Annette Robeck, aka Dreamcatcher, dreamcatcher@patriotguard.org (615) 974-3046
(others that are present please make contact at staging with Sportypig or Dreamcatcher, as additional assistance may be needed)
We will stop for lunch in Sweet Water where John loved to get BBQ.
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First leg of the ride will be to depart Alcoa to Maryville and take 321 out of town. This will take us through Walland and to the site of John's crash. I haven't determined exactly where we can all stop, but we will figure that out, once we see how many people we have going along. We will stop, and any that want can sign the guard rail. From there it's the Foothills Parkway. Will stop at the Lookout rock (I think that's the name) observation area. It's a beautiful view, and John had a favorite spot he liked to spend a little time enjoying the view there. I don't suggest anyone getting into the little spot he liked to get into, but it's pretty easy to get within about 5 feet of his "place". Then continue on to the end of the Foothills Parkway, and to the bridge at Chilhowee Lake. Any that want can take the opportunity to jump off the bridge. It's a very low bridge and perfectly safe, if ya wanna take a cooling dip in this beautiful lake.
All of the ride up to this point is just a nice ride though the mountains. A few sweeping turns, but nothing of a challenging nature. The bridge is on Highway 129. This is where anyone that doesn't want to ride the Dragon can go North on Highway 129, which will take you back into Maryville. It's approx 18 miles from here back to Maryville, and a nice ride through the countryside. The rest of the group will then go south on 129. Approximately 2 miles along the lake, and then 318 curves in the next 11 miles. We will stop at Deal's Gap Motorcycle resort to get the group back together, and have an opportunity for any that want to do a little Dragon shopping, get a cold drink, etc. Then into Robinsville, NC and Sweetwater BBQ for Lunch.
Sweetwater was one of John's favorite places to eat. The people there knew him well, and were devastated to hear about his death. They are expecting us, and I'm working with them to give them an idea of how many people to plan for. They will be prepared, regardless of our numbers. Pretty good BBQ here, and also other food selections for those "strange" people that don't like BBQ. At this point the ride will have been approximately 62 miles, and 90 minutes of riding time, not including the stops. (From here, any that need to get heading back home to the South, can take a nice ride on down 129 to highway 79 and then west through Ducktown, TN, Ocoee, TN and into Cleveland to get back to the interstate.)
After lunch, fill up the tanks!! For the next 85 miles there will be NO opportunity to purchase fuel. Or anything else for that matter. I also suggest putting on an extra layer of clothes. Our next stop will be at Big Junction on the Cherohola Skyway. Elevation 5,235 feet. It's beautiful up there, but even on the July 4th weekend, it will be a bit chilly. This leg of the ride is both beautiful and casual, with some really challenging curves thrown in here and there. We will take it a casual speed, but all still need to stay alert, and don't enjoy the views too much. It can get tricky without much notice. From Big Junction, back down the Mountain, into Jacktown, TN (just east of Tellico Plains).
We will then take SR 360 north. This a a lovely, easy ride along small lakes, and through Valleys. Enjoy the ride, the challenging stuff is over. This will bring us to Highway 411, approximately 12 miles South of Maryville. Then just back up to Maryville and on into Alcoa.
Total ride is approximately 160 miles, and 4 hours 30 minutes of riding time. Not counting the time for stops.
Several of the middle TN folks, GA, AL, and FL folks are staying at the Days Inn on 2962 Alcoa Hwy., Maryville, TN 37701. They still have rooms available if anyone is needing a place to stay. Some of us staying also have double beds and floor space if it's needed......
John's family from Youngstown, OH are coming to Maryville, TN for the Memorial Mission.
Annette Robeck
aka Dreamcatcher
TN State Captain
Patriot Guard Riders |
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BootLady
#34204
TOU Enforcement Agent
"In God We Still Trust" Diamond Rio - Diamond Rio's Greatest Hits II
"You may die with nothing, but if you have brought a rainbow into somebody else's life, your mission is complete." |
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sneakysnake
Posts: 4574
Panama City, Fl.
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| 28 Jun 2008 6:28 AM |
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| Rest in Peace my brother. I will be there in spirit. |
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James Davis
Dixie Region Captain
AL, FL, GA, LA, MS, TN
Proud Patriot Guard Rider
It Ain't Easy Bein' Me!
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dreamcatcher
Posts: 2270
TN State Captain Antioch, TN
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| 28 Jun 2008 8:12 AM |
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Written in Honor of John:
John N. Deniakis
aka SmokyMtnSporty
He loved to ride his “Rat” bike
Been riding about three years
And every time he rode a mission
He would always shed some tears.
His respect for fallen Warriors
And for, the lost Veterans, too
Was something very special
A Patriot, through and through.
He lived up in the mountains
He was just a simple kind of guy
Everybody seemed to love him
And there are many reasons why.
He said, his friends were his Family
And they were spread far and wide
They all have some great memories
To know him, brought a special pride.
He had a sense of humor, too
And some funny stories will be told
All of those who knew him will say
He also had a big heart of gold.
He rode on every trip he could
Honored, all of those who Served
And all nice things said about him
Are surely true, and well deserved.
He was taken from us too early
But, he’s left a great Legacy
Of Service to his fellow man
And Dedication to his Country.
Del “Abe” Jones
06.16.2008 |
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Annette Robeck
aka Dreamcatcher
Proud Mom of an Army National Guard Daughter
Proud Wife of an USAF Veteran
PGR member and friend John "SmokyMtnSporty" Deniakis - 09 Jun 2008
"Optimistically pessimistic about life"
PGR Ride Captain (Ret) Mike "Deltoid" Bland - 22 Feb 2008
"It's all good"
A.L.R. Post #88, Donelson, TN
dreamcatcher@patriotguard.org
LET THEM KNOW WE CARE AND WE WILL ALWAYS REMEMBER...............NEVER FORGET |
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Pooz
Posts: 43
Sebastian, Florida
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| 28 Jun 2008 9:01 AM |
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| My heartfelt condolences to our brother John. He will certainly be missed...Rest Easy Brother! |
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"Riding for PFC Salvatore Armato...KIA Nov 1970"
"Riding for SSgt William T Brown...MIA Nov 1969"
"Remembering Sept. 11, 2001 Forever" |
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SportyPig
Posts: 1013
Nashville, TN (Hermitage)
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| 28 Jun 2008 11:13 AM |
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For any that care, these are my travel plans:
Will depart Nashville around 0900 (Central time) on Friday, the 4th. That will put me in Maryville around 1300 (Eastern time). Plan to go to Naterz for lunch. Anyone that wants to find the Pig (other than bill collectors, or angry husbands) are welcome to join me for lunch.
Naterz is next to the Foothills Mall in Maryville. Best way I can tell you to get there is to go to the Smokey Mountain Harley Dealer, and ask anyone that works there. Smokey Mountain HD is on 321 (Lamar Alexander Pkwy W) just on the west side of Maryville. Naterz is about 2 miles or less, and I think only 2 turns from the HD dealer.
I will also be staying at the Days Inn. Not sure with whom, I will stay. But then it wouldn't be a "SportyPig road trip" if I knew with whom and where I would be staying before I got outta the barn. What's the fun in that???
We will have a great Memorial ride. As I stated in another thread, I had my own personal memorial ride a few days after the trip up for John's funeral. I got a lot of healing from that. Hopefully, this will be a healing time. A ride in Celebration of John's life. The first few stops will be planned as a "good bye" to a great friend. Then we will ride in Celebration, and have some fun. Ole SmokyMtnSporty would want it that way.
If anyone needs to contact me, other than email, Dreamcatcher will give you my cell number. I don't publish that on the internet....(see previously mentioned comment about bill collectors and angry husbands.....LOL)
Ya'll ride safe!
C ya in East TN
In brotherhood,
SportyPig |
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"Riding with Respect" to go "Stand for Those Who Stood For US"
Central TN Ride Captain
Treasurer, Patriot Guard Riders of TN |
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Jasper54
Posts: 6753
Columbus, Ohio
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| 28 Jun 2008 2:15 PM |
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| I wish to offer my most sincere prayers and extend my deepest sympathies to the family and friends of Patriot Guard Rider, John N. Deniakis "SmokyMtnSporty. I pray that the Lord Jesus is there with you to hold you and to give you His Peace and Comfort during this most difficult time. |
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For I am persuaded that neither death nor life, nor angels nor principalities nor powers, nor things present nor things to come, nor height nor depth , nor any other created thing , shall be able to separate us from the love of God which is in Christ Jesus our Lord. - Romans 8:38-39.
Visit me at: www.MySpace.com/ChaplainRoger
GySgt. Roger Casto, U.S.M.C. Ret. 1972-1992
Iran/Iraq War Veteran 1988 (Op Earnest Will)
Veteran of Foriegn Wars, Life Member
Double Blue Star Dad
Riding in honor of:
Sgt. Millard Archy, USA, WWI, France; Sgt. John Meyer, USA WWI, France; Sgt. Alva Pete Osborn, USA, WWII, KIA - France; Seaman Bob Schneider, USN, WWII, Purple Heart; Battle of Leyte Gulf; T/Sgt. Russell Casto, USAF Congo Revolution, Viet Nam; Sgt. Ron Casto, USMC C.A.P. Viet Nam; Sgt. Sean Casto, TennANG. Iraq War;
In Honor and Memory of Ten HMLA-267, MAG-39 Marines who Answered the call and made the ULTIMATE SACRAFICE while ensuring the safety and security of our nation:
Lt. Col. Knott, Capt. Dillon, Capt. Dolvin, Capt. Hurley, Capt. Cronin, Sgt. Kilkus, Sgt. Keller, Cpl. Romei, LCpl. Adams, Cpl. Monahan,
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highsalute
Posts: 1238
Huntsville, AL
Home is where the Heart is!
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| 29 Jun 2008 6:33 PM |
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Sorry folks - I am cancelling my reservations at Days Inn due to mom's deterioating health. Please send my deepest condolences to John's family and huggs to all of you. I sure will be missing you all on this ride - but I am exactly where I need to be...with mom
You all will be in my prayers for a safe journey. John you are dearly missed |
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In honor of those who serve(d)
American Legion Rider: Topsham, ME Post # 202 & #8 Guntersville, AL
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dreamcatcher
Posts: 2270
TN State Captain Antioch, TN
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| 29 Jun 2008 8:35 PM |
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Posted By highsalute on 29 Jun 2008 6:33 PM
Sorry folks - I am cancelling my reservations at Days Inn due to mom's deterioating health. Please send my deepest condolences to John's family and huggs to all of you. I sure will be missing you all on this ride - but I am exactly where I need to be...with mom
You all will be in my prayers for a safe journey. John you are dearly missed
you are where you need to be, you will be with us in spirit......if you send me a snail addy, I have something for you I was going to give you this weekend.......
We have your Mom in our prayer........
Dreamcatcher |
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Annette Robeck
aka Dreamcatcher
Proud Mom of an Army National Guard Daughter
Proud Wife of an USAF Veteran
PGR member and friend John "SmokyMtnSporty" Deniakis - 09 Jun 2008
"Optimistically pessimistic about life"
PGR Ride Captain (Ret) Mike "Deltoid" Bland - 22 Feb 2008
"It's all good"
A.L.R. Post #88, Donelson, TN
dreamcatcher@patriotguard.org
LET THEM KNOW WE CARE AND WE WILL ALWAYS REMEMBER...............NEVER FORGET |
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Pepper_guy
Posts: 5843
Lacey, WA
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| 01 Jul 2008 12:09 AM |
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My sincere condolences and prayers to family and friends of John N. "SmokyMtnsporty" Deniakis, PGR Member. Mr. Deniakis, I am forever grateful for your service to our Fallin Heroes. Your service and sacrifices will not be forgotten. You are a "TRUE AMERICAN HERO". May you Forever Rest in Peace.
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Junius Henry
PGR Member #10094 |
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SportyPig
Posts: 1013
Nashville, TN (Hermitage)
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| 01 Jul 2008 7:19 AM |
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Any folks from Middle TN, and points west that want to ride over together on Friday morning, July 4th:
Staging at Daily's Shell Station on Old Hickory Blvd. Exit 221B on I-40 (This is the Old Hickory Bvld exit on I-40 in Hermitage, not the one in Bellevue). Turn right at the exit, and the Shell Station/McDonalds is directly across the street. Time 0900, KSU 0930.
Next stop in Crossville for fuel. In order to keep this "3 hour tour" from turning into a TV comedy series, we will stick to a fairly tight schedule.
Everyone Ride Safe! |
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"Riding with Respect" to go "Stand for Those Who Stood For US"
Central TN Ride Captain
Treasurer, Patriot Guard Riders of TN |
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SportyPig
Posts: 1013
Nashville, TN (Hermitage)
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| 02 Jul 2008 12:52 PM |
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Anyone interested in a Memorial Patch, see this thread:
http://www.patriotguard.org/ALLForums/tabid/61/forumid/110/view/topic/postid/912400/Default.aspx |
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"Riding with Respect" to go "Stand for Those Who Stood For US"
Central TN Ride Captain
Treasurer, Patriot Guard Riders of TN |
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Daslowpoke
Posts: 1252
New Port Richey, FL
Senior
Ride Captain
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| 03 Jul 2008 5:12 AM |
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slowpoke and Sig22 are ROLLING out of Tampa Bay...
Y'all ride safe and we'll see you in the mountains. We've got Deltoid on our twelve and Johnny on our six, we're good to go... |
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Riding in Memory of:
John "SmokyMTNSporty" Deniakis
"Optimistically pessimistic about life"
Mike "Deltoid" Bland
"It's All Good"
Jack "jacklok" Loken
"Take Care Ride Safe" |
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T-Bone
Posts: 2247
Georgia
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| 03 Jul 2008 6:45 AM |
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Our sincere condolences to the family and friends of Patriot Guard Rider John N. Deniakis, "SmokyMtnSporty". Thank you "Smoky" for your loving support of our Troops and the PGR. Ride on Home my friend, the road ahead is smoothe and straight........So Ride on up to Heaven's Gate........where many friends anxiously wait.........where all is love, and there's no more hate......where there's no need for the sun yet the chrome shines bright...........Cause it's never dark, and Jesus is the light.
T-Bone and Keeper |
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Georgia PGR..........Part of It........Proud of It! |
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TexaninGA
Posts: 33
Dacula, GA
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| 03 Jul 2008 1:39 PM |
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Our condolences and prayers go out to John's family. John, thank you. Your help has been great, your reward will be greater. Rest in loving peace brother...
Chet and Jennifer Hale
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"Our obligations to our country never cease but with our lives." - John Adams
-Amor Patriae
Georgia PGR - Part of it - Proud of it! |
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"Wookie"
Posts: 1251
Olympia, WA
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| 03 Jul 2008 10:42 PM |
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Our Sincere Condolences to the Family and Friends of John N. Deniakis "SmokyMtnsporty"!
Our heartfelt Prayers for Comfort and Strength during this time
of Remembrance for your Loved One !
We “Thank You” for a Hero who has served us so faithfully!
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Respectfully,
John"Wookie"Enoch |
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dreamcatcher
Posts: 2270
TN State Captain Antioch, TN
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| 04 Jul 2008 7:28 AM |
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Dreamcatcher and Choo Choo are loaded and out of the "Barn" headed for the Middle TN staging! MusicMan and Sharon called they arrived safely last night.
See y'all on the road or there later this evening!
Ride/Drive safely.......... |
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Annette Robeck
aka Dreamcatcher
Proud Mom of an Army National Guard Daughter
Proud Wife of an USAF Veteran
PGR member and friend John "SmokyMtnSporty" Deniakis - 09 Jun 2008
"Optimistically pessimistic about life"
PGR Ride Captain (Ret) Mike "Deltoid" Bland - 22 Feb 2008
"It's all good"
A.L.R. Post #88, Donelson, TN
dreamcatcher@patriotguard.org
LET THEM KNOW WE CARE AND WE WILL ALWAYS REMEMBER...............NEVER FORGET |
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Uffda
Posts: 10736
Wonder Lake, IL
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| 04 Jul 2008 6:12 PM |
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Our sincere condolences to the family and friends of John N. Deniakis "SmokyMtnsporty", PGR Member.
May God help you though this difficult time and sorrow. For his
unselfish dedication to the PGR and families of the fallen he will never be forgotten.
Rest Safely and Securely in God's Loving Arms, John.
Going home, going home,
I'm just going home.
Quiet-like, slip away-
I'll be going home.
It's not far, just close by;
Jesus is the Door;
Work all done, laid aside,
Fear and grief no more.
Friends are there, waiting now.
He is waiting, too.
See His smile! See His hand!
He will lead me through.
Morning
Star lights the way;
Restless dream all done;
Shadows gone, break of day,
Life has just begun.
Every tear wiped away,
Pain and sickness gone;
Wide awake there with Him!
Peace goes on and on!
Going home, going home,
I'll be going home.
See the Light! See the Sun!
I'm just going home.
http://lnwbooks.com/data/mp3/15.mp3 |
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Only two defining forces have ever offered to die for you: 1. Jesus Christ. 2. The American G.I. One died for your soul, the other for your Freedom. |
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dreamcatcher
Posts: 2270
TN State Captain Antioch, TN
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| 04 Jul 2008 8:34 PM |
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Middle TN arrived safely this afternoon, around 1:30 ish EST. met up with the FL bunch, Clarksville arrived not too long ago.
We checked out the staging and first leg of the mission, everything is looking good for tomorrow's mission.
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Annette Robeck
aka Dreamcatcher
Proud Mom of an Army National Guard Daughter
Proud Wife of an USAF Veteran
PGR member and friend John "SmokyMtnSporty" Deniakis - 09 Jun 2008
"Optimistically pessimistic about life"
PGR Ride Captain (Ret) Mike "Deltoid" Bland - 22 Feb 2008
"It's all good"
A.L.R. Post #88, Donelson, TN
dreamcatcher@patriotguard.org
LET THEM KNOW WE CARE AND WE WILL ALWAYS REMEMBER...............NEVER FORGET |
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dreamcatcher
Posts: 2270
TN State Captain Antioch, TN
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| 05 Jul 2008 7:17 PM |
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Mission Complete
Saturday morning started out raining, but we were geared up to honor one of our own. We had members and friends from Florida, Alabama, Georgia, and varous parts of Tennessee with us today. Most of the east Tennessee members in attendance today were new members! Welcome! We also had Drifter371, TennVic, Sarge and Heavy2008 all veteran members from east TN. Thank you all for your love and dedication today, we all needed each other, and the fellowship was wonderful! It was great to get to know our new brothers and sisters here in east TN! We had about 20-25 bikes, most were with 2 passengers, and about 7 cages, all full!! It was a wonderful turn out for a day that started out so wet, but ended up so beautiful!
The rains only lasted through staging, and the sun started peeking out here and there, we had clouds and sun off and on for a couple of hours. Then, as if SmokyMtnSporty himself was smiling down on us, the sun came out and stayed with us the entire day!
Sportypig, the route laid out was awesome! All the stops we made were at the right time and place, the first at the crash site, all the way to the last! The folks we talked to a long the way were so glad to see our group riding for John today, several business asked for decals to put in their businesses as a memorial of him. They all told of his passion of riding and standing for our fallen heroes.
It was a pleasure to see National here today too! Thank you for coming to Honor our fallen brother!
Most are staying over tonight and leaving tomorrow. Some of our out of state family had to hit the road today, but they promised to post or call when they either stopped for the night or arrived home.
We did end up with a reporter from a major newspaper in East TN, with us part of the day, he took a lot of pictures and talked to several members both locally and from out of state.
Thank you to all the cam out today to ride/drive for John's Memorial Run, it was a Great and Safe Day for ALL!!
Dreamcatcher |
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Annette Robeck
aka Dreamcatcher
Proud Mom of an Army National Guard Daughter
Proud Wife of an USAF Veteran
PGR member and friend John "SmokyMtnSporty" Deniakis - 09 Jun 2008
"Optimistically pessimistic about life"
PGR Ride Captain (Ret) Mike "Deltoid" Bland - 22 Feb 2008
"It's all good"
A.L.R. Post #88, Donelson, TN
dreamcatcher@patriotguard.org
LET THEM KNOW WE CARE AND WE WILL ALWAYS REMEMBER...............NEVER FORGET |
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dreamcatcher
Posts: 2270
TN State Captain Antioch, TN
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| 06 Jul 2008 9:32 PM |
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We arrived home safe and sound, finally got a flat tire repaired on Choo Choo's bike! The hotel seemed to have lots of loose nails around the parking lot and his rear tire found one. We picked up several more so others wouldn't...
Musicman, those pics you and Shadebabe took some great pics! Can't wait to see the others that were taken along the way. I know several folks were snapping pictures.
Most everyone I talked to has returned home safely. Last time I talked to Sportypig he was about an hour away, should be hearing from him shorty.
Thank you all for coming and standing in Honor of our Brother! I saw while waiting on the tire to be repaired that we made the Sunday paper also! Page 3A, the whole page almost was dedicated to the Memorial run for John!! |
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Annette Robeck
aka Dreamcatcher
Proud Mom of an Army National Guard Daughter
Proud Wife of an USAF Veteran
PGR member and friend John "SmokyMtnSporty" Deniakis - 09 Jun 2008
"Optimistically pessimistic about life"
PGR Ride Captain (Ret) Mike "Deltoid" Bland - 22 Feb 2008
"It's all good"
A.L.R. Post #88, Donelson, TN
dreamcatcher@patriotguard.org
LET THEM KNOW WE CARE AND WE WILL ALWAYS REMEMBER...............NEVER FORGET |
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dreamcatcher
Posts: 2270
TN State Captain Antioch, TN
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| 07 Jul 2008 12:56 PM |
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MusicmanM58
Posts: 215
Madison, Tn.
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| 06 Jul 2008 9:58 PM |
 Delete  Edit  Quote  Reply  Alert |
Sharon and I made it home safe on sunday, I pray everyone else has done the same by now... what a very emotional weekend... but one we would not have missed for the world. I'll let the pictures speak for themselves about the ride and weekend.
SmokyMtnSporty Memorial Ride |
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~Mark & Sharon~ | | |
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Annette Robeck
aka Dreamcatcher
Proud Mom of an Army National Guard Daughter
Proud Wife of an USAF Veteran
PGR member and friend John "SmokyMtnSporty" Deniakis - 09 Jun 2008
"Optimistically pessimistic about life"
PGR Ride Captain (Ret) Mike "Deltoid" Bland - 22 Feb 2008
"It's all good"
A.L.R. Post #88, Donelson, TN
dreamcatcher@patriotguard.org
LET THEM KNOW WE CARE AND WE WILL ALWAYS REMEMBER...............NEVER FORGET |
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dreamcatcher
Posts: 2270
TN State Captain Antioch, TN
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| 07 Jul 2008 12:58 PM |
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Susan41
Posts: 155
Murfreesboro, Tn.
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| 07 Jul 2008 1:38 PM |
Delete Edit Quote Reply Alert |
You can count on me being there next year riding it myself, for sure.
It was great meeting everyone that knew John.
There will be a video made soon using video & photos of John & the Ride. If there is any Photos that anyone would like included, we will try to put in as many as we can. i had talked with Pinky and the video will be put to one of John's favorite songs By Rascall Flatts " Me & My Gang." Quite fitting, I believe.
Email any photos to be included in video as "attachments" to susan41@comcast.net
Here are the pictures I took:
click on "full screen" on the right hand side.
http://susan41sane58.spaces.live.com/photos/cns!9B3E738DB7E68AC3!303/
(made active by Dreamcatcher  ) | | |
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Annette Robeck
aka Dreamcatcher
Proud Mom of an Army National Guard Daughter
Proud Wife of an USAF Veteran
PGR member and friend John "SmokyMtnSporty" Deniakis - 09 Jun 2008
"Optimistically pessimistic about life"
PGR Ride Captain (Ret) Mike "Deltoid" Bland - 22 Feb 2008
"It's all good"
A.L.R. Post #88, Donelson, TN
dreamcatcher@patriotguard.org
LET THEM KNOW WE CARE AND WE WILL ALWAYS REMEMBER...............NEVER FORGET |
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lonetexan2u
Posts: 922
Phelan, Ca. High Desert
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| 07 Jul 2008 1:36 PM |
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My family extends it's Sincere Condolences to the Family and Friends of John N. Deniakis "SmokyMtnsporty"! May God give you Peace and Comfort within your hearts with the knowledge "SmokyMtnsporty" is in the grasp of the Greatest hands he would want to be in.
TO Our Hero; “God's speed as you join your comrades. Rest in Peace, you have served well... I stand in spirit with my brothers and sisters, humbled by all you have given!” “For those who man the battle line, the bugle whispers low, and freedom has a taste and price the protected never know." Thank you for standing the lines for our Veterans, You are one of our PGR Hero's
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Billy "Hawkeye" Mathews
Sgt USMC 1969 - 1972 Texas
Proud Patriot Guard Rider
American Legion Post 262
American Legion Riders Post 777
Proud Father of 1st Sgt G.R. Mathews 1st Cav US Army, East Texas
Proud Grandfather of B. Mathews Airman recruit USAF, East Texas
Proud Grandfather of B. Frank Airman First Class USAF, Calif.
Proud Father-in-law of C. Stoney Spc US Army 1st Cav, West Texas
Riding in Memory of:
My Father, George G. Mathews Pvt US Army WWII Purple Heart, Texas
Uncle Henry W. Mathews Pvt US Army WWII, Texas
Uncle C.L. Lynch Sgt US Army WWII, Texas
Cousin C.M. Lynch US Navy Vietnam, Texas
Cousin T.E. Lynch US Navy Vietnam, Texas
Cousin George W. Weldy Jr. USMC KIA Vietnam, Texas
Cousin Bennye W. Cowley USMC KIA Vietnam , Texas
Cousin Jackie D. Bradford US Army, Arizona
And all those whom have served this great Nation throughout our history |
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dreamcatcher
Posts: 2270
TN State Captain Antioch, TN
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| 07 Jul 2008 6:15 PM |
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SportyPig
Posts: 862
Nashville, TN (Hermitage)
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| 07 Jul 2008 3:46 PM |
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Ride Report: (ya’ll get a beverage of choice, and you’ll probably need some Kleenex if you read this entire report)
As was forecasted, we awoke early on Saturday morning to grey skies and light rain. I had been hoping to see bright sunshine. As we were about to depart the motel for staging, we discovered that the rear tire on Choo Choo’s bike was very low. We tried to pump up the tire, but then discovered a nail. Many of the members were planning to wait until the later half of the staging time to arrive, hopefully to allow the rain to pass.
I left dreamcatcher and choo choo with the rest of the group to deal with the tire issue, and headed out in a light rain for staging. When I arrived, there was already a member from Georgia in the parking lot. A fairly new member, that had gotten up early and rode in the rain up for this memorial ride for a person he never met. Thanks for coming up to share in our loss, and to celebrate the life of a great PGR member. Once I arrived, the rain stopped. Ah, yes, the weather is going to clear, so I took off my rain suit. As soon as I did that, it then started to pour down rain. YUCK.
We headed for the covered sidewalk at the Brown’s Creek Shopping Center. All of the merchants were so kind and understanding of our presence. Thank you for the hospitality, and the compassion that many of you showed us during our time there. I switched hats, so to speak, and started to get ready to take orders for the memorial patches and t-shirts. If you missed this, don’t worry you can still order them. See the thread in the TN area of the forum for ordering instructions. I am placing the order today, but there will be plenty for any that want them. They should arrive to me in about 2 weeks.
Members started to arrive 2 and 3 at a time. This was pretty much typical staging activities and conversation during this time. Meeting new members, and members from other states, as well as a few East TN members that I had not previously had the opportunity to meet. With the mentioned memorial items being ordered, and memorial decals than had been made being distributed added into the mix of things. Those turned out great dreamcatcher! The rain had stopped and the weather was once again looking favorable.
I surveyed the parking lot checking for license plates from other areas. In addition to the GA member I already mentioned, the other states that were represented were TN, FL, AL and KY. Yes Mrs.K I didn’t forget about KY. Even though we like to consider you and Bogatzi to be part of the Middle TN PGR, I remember where you live. There was one other GA member in attendance. Thanks Ancient 1, from National, for sharing this weekend with us.
To say this was the most difficult ride briefing I’ve ever done is a gross understatement. I totally forgot to ask if there were any new members present, and I knew there were several. My apologies to the new members, and Ancient 1 for not recognizing your attendance. I trust you all know that wasn’t an intentional lapse, but one from an emotional overload. I even forgot to introduce myself as one of the ride captains for the mission. Obviously, I’m not cut out to Ride Captain this type of mission, so let’s just NOT have a need for any similar memorial missions in the future!!!! I did mange to lay out the first couple of legs of this long ride, and promised to give other details as we went along the way on this 175 mile run. I instructed that the first two legs of this journey would be of a somber nature, and this was the time to grief and say farewell to a dear friend. After that we would ride in Celebration of his life, and charged everyone to have a good time during the day. I noticed someone in the crowd with what was obviously not your average garden variety camera that was taking pictures. Daslowpoke lead us in a gut wrenching pre-ride prayer. Thanks for that brother, I know it was difficult for you to do. It was perfect. And then, once again, the rain began. Time to put back on the rain suits, and get ready to ride.
I knew that Mark Watrous had worked all night, and had been busting hump since around sunrise to get from Nashville to the staging area before KSU. I got a call from him, as the ride briefing was winding down, he had made it to Maryville. I told him, and the 2 other riders he had with him, to come on. We would wait. I didn’t want to leave anyone behind, and certainly not someone that was as close of a friend to John, as Watrous. I then started to gather up my “office” from all of the accounting activities during the staging time, and was approached by the gentleman with the professional looking camera.
He introduced himself as Daryl Sullivan with The Daily Times newspaper. Mrs. K, kindly took the two hands full of paper work I had from me so I could shake his hand. He told me he had taken some pictures, and asked permission to publish them in the paper. I told him that would be perfectly fine, gave him my name and where I was from, and slipped him a business card. Those of you that know me will not be surprised that I totally forgot his name, and the newspaper name in about the same amount of time it took him to tell me. It would not be until the next morning that I would see his work, and “remember” his name.
A few minutes later, our late arrivals had made it, very wet from the 180 mile ride in the rain from Nashville to Maryville. We had a chance to greet them, and get the 3 x 5 flags on the bike unfurled. With everyone back in full rain gear it was time for KSU. Heavy, and a couple of other cagers, sorry I don’t remember the names, did an awesome job blocking traffic on this fairly busy 5 lane highway so we could safely make the left hand turn out from the parking lot. With hazard lights flashing, flags flying, and a steady light rain falling, we started on the short 7.5 mile leg of this ride to the crash site. There were 20 – 25 bikes 7 cages and over 40 people on a mission to honor this great American. SmokyMtnSporty.
My emotions at this time were hitting every human emotion know to science. I was very concerned about the safety of all that were unquestionably following my lead. I was humbled by that confidence that was placed in my hands. I briefly reflected back to the first time I lead a group out in honor of John, in Youngstown, OH from the hotel we were in to the funeral home. My eyes filled with tears during that time. I was both proud and happy that I could serve in this capacity on this Memorial ride. Thank You PGR for that privilege. And I was sure hopeful that it would be considered an appropriate, respectful, and fun memorial ride for all that had come out on this occasion.
We arrived at “Ground Zero”, the crash site. There is a very wide paved shoulder on the North bound side of highway 321 at this place. Unfortunately, the South bound side is a very narrow shoulder. We were able to safely park the bikes and cages to take the walk across the highway to the guard rail that claimed our friend’s life. The rain had stopped, but the skies were very grey, and the only way to describe the look of the mountains that surrounded us is Sad…..very very Sad. It seemed that even “Mother Nature” was grieving with us at this time. I realized I had forgotten to plan for a wet guard rail. I had plenty of sharpies, but they weren’t going to work very well on rain soaked metal. Thanks to Dr. G, for pulling a towel out of the hat so we could dry off the guard rail. Once again, Heavy and others blocked traffic in the right lane on the south bound side, and waved over traffic to provide safety for all that were signing the guard rail, and leaving other items of affection. We were at this stop for well over 30 minutes, and really had traffic congested. This apparently attracted the attention of the Blount Co. Sheriff Dept. One of them stopped and talked with Heavy and the group that were waving over traffic. We had talked with Blount Co LEO the day before, and they were aware of our plans. The LEO stopped and helped with traffic control, and even blocked oncoming traffic on the North bound side to allow for a safe departure. God Speed to you my friend, it’s time to continue on the ride.
On to the Foothill’s Parkway. A nice ride with sweeping turns, and about 12 miles to the Flat Rock overlook. Once we arrived there, I told all that were brave enough to make a little hike, I would show them one of John’s favorite places, and they would understand why he liked to stop there. Most of us made the little trip down the mountain to the place. I wasn’t about to get down into the little crevice that John liked to get in, but I could show everyone where it was. Musicmantou, from AL was brave enough to get down into “John’s space”. Ya got more guts than me man! It’s a LONG way to the bottom if ya take a spill there. The weather was starting to clear. Most started getting out of the rain gear, if not totally at least partially. The 2 somber stops of the ride were now over, it was time to start riding in Celebration. We made the other 12 miles or so of the Foothill’s Parkway, and then a short ride to “The Bridge”.
This is a bridge on highway 129, just a couple of miles from the “Dragon” where for many many years John and his East TN friends have shared some great times together. To kick off the Celebration portion of this ride, some of us crazies jumped off the bridge into the Chilhowee Lake. A beautiful, deep, and I might add somewhat cold mountain lake. As the 10 – 12 of us started to jump off the bridge, the clouds vanished and the Sun was out! This certainly had not been the weather I had hoped for, but it couldn’t have been more fitting. Now that the celebration portion of the ride was starting, the sun was out and it was a BEAUTIFUL day in the Smoky Mountains. After a stop at a public restroom facility, for those that didn’t relieve themselves in the Lake, the roads had even dried. It was starting to look like maybe a fun run through the Dragon.
Once again, I got on the bullhorn, and told any that wanted to make the Dragon run “SmokyMtnSporty style” to head out first. Then intermediate riders, then casual speed riders and cages. Nobody seemed to want to take off first. I could never begin to keep up with John on the Dragon, but I headed out in the lead. WELCOME TO THE DRAGON aka “John’s road”. Of course with it being a holiday weekend, the opportunity to run at a more spirited pace only lasted about a mile or less. Nonetheless, it was a good run through the Dragon. With 7 cages in the rear serving as tailgunners, there couldn’t be a more safe time for the first timers to earn their “Dragon Slayer” status. Congrats to all that safely made the ride. There are bikers all over the world that are envious of you for that experience. Lots of souvenirs were purchased at the Deal’s Gap Motorcycle Resort.
TIME FOR SOME FOOD!!! At this point we were running about an hour behind my anticipated schedule. Which was perfectly fine, just that my stomach was beginning to think that my head had been cut off. The ride from Deal’s Gap into Robinsville starts out the same as the Dragon, but then is a nice ride along a mountain stream and the beautiful Smoky Mountain area. I had talked to the folks at Sweetwater BBQ several times over the last couple of weeks, and they were expecting us. I had no idea the extent they were going through to welcome us. Turns out, they had reserved half the restaurant anticipating out arrival. They even made several customers wait for a table, while they anticipated our arrival. They had a memorial for John on the front door. Ya see, they really knew him well. He loved that place, and they loved him. The nice lady I had been talking with, had planned to serve us, but she had just gone “off the clock” when we arrived. Curiously enough, she was “back on the clock” and served us very well. Yum yum, some good ole BBQ. I did bring my own BBQ sauce, sorry about that, but SportyPig’s original sauce is better than what is available, if you like vinegar based, hot BBQ sauce. I could give ya the recipe, but then I’d hafta kill ya. Thanks Sweetwater BBQ for everything!!! I will see you again soon.
Since some were finished with lunch well before others, we took the opportunity to fill up the tanks there at Sweetwater BBQ (yes they also sell gas). And a few heeded my advice to dress for a little cooler weather, but then I had a mutiny on my hands. It was quite warm in Robinsville, and many didn’t want to put on more clothes. So, we agreed, if it got cold, I would pull over at one of the stops on the Cherohola Skyway and allow for a “wardrobe change”. Let me tell ya, ya’ll got lucky! I wasn’t gonna stop again until Big Junction, good thing it was nice and comfortable at 5,300 feet as we went through there (evil grin).
What a nice ride up to Big Junction. Such beautiful views, and all riders also kept an eye on the road, as it can get a bit tricky in a few places. We stopped at Big Junction, were I shared one of my most special times with John. It’s glorious there. We took some group pictures, and those that didn’t get a chance to sign the PGR flag that we plan to give to his family had that opportunity. It was also time to say “until we meet again” to our FL riders. They were going to go on into Tellico Plains and get started on their way to southern FL when we turned north on Highway 360. Sig22 and daslowpoke, I now know why John spoke so highly of you. It was a great pleasure to spend some time with you.
The rest of the ride through the Skyway was a wonderful ride. It seemed that all in the group and had gotten comfortable riding together, and we all made a nice casual ride through these sweeping turns, through the valley’s and along the lakes for this last 60 miles of the ride.
At the end of Highway 360, I stopped for those that needed a break, and to pretty much end the ride. We were still 15 miles south of our point of origin, but it was time for some to head south, and other directions. The remaining 15 miles was just straight up highway 411 into Maryville, with traffic lights etc etc. Some headed south, some planned to return to the motel for a shower and nap, some to local watering holes, etc etc.
I had planed to include the events of the evening after the ride, and the next day’s trip over to John’s place, “The Pig Palace”, but this has gone on way too long already. Hopefully I can get the newspaper coverage that I have scanned to post here. I hope this ride was healing for everyone, and it turned out to be worthy of your attendance. Thanks to all that helped along the way, and everyone that turned out!
Until we meet again….Ride safe!
In Brotherhood,
SportyPig
Looks like I will have to post the scanned newspaper coverage on a third party site, and provide the link. I'll work on that a bit later. |
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"Riding with Respect" to go "Stand for Those Who Stood For US"
Central TN Ride Captain
Treasurer, Patriot Guard Riders of TN |
| 07 Jul 2008 3:51 PM | |
Ridley
Posts: 2776
NW Georgia
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| 07 Jul 2008 4:04 PM |
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| A beautiful ride report and Tribute to SmokyMtnSporty, Randy. Thanks to all who were able to make it and for posting the pictures, I feel as if I had been along with you. |
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Pam Blalock
"In any moment of decision, the best thing you can do is the right thing. The worst thing you can do is nothing." Theodore Roosevelt
Patriot Guard Riders -- Part of it!--Proud of it! -- No Borders!
In Memory- Mike "Deltoid" Bland
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Annette Robeck
aka Dreamcatcher
Proud Mom of an Army National Guard Daughter
Proud Wife of an USAF Veteran
PGR member and friend John "SmokyMtnSporty" Deniakis - 09 Jun 2008
"Optimistically pessimistic about life"
PGR Ride Captain (Ret) Mike "Deltoid" Bland - 22 Feb 2008
"It's all good"
A.L.R. Post #88, Donelson, TN
dreamcatcher@patriotguard.org
LET THEM KNOW WE CARE AND WE WILL ALWAYS REMEMBER...............NEVER FORGET |
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dreamcatcher
Posts: 2270
TN State Captain Antioch, TN
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| 07 Jul 2008 6:16 PM |
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dreamcatcher 
Posts: 1718
TN State Captain Antioch, TN
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| 07 Jul 2008 4:22 PM |
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| Awesome report Sportypig! Ya did GREAT too!! |
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Annette Robeck
aka Dreamcatcher
Proud mom of an Army National Guard Daughter
A.L.R. Post #88, Donelson, TN
dreamcatcher@patriotguard.org
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