|
|
To Request
Our Services
|
 |
|
Please contact your State Captain for all mission requests, except for Arlington National Cemetery(ANC). Your State Captain, the ANC team, Moderators, and Contact teams, may be contacted through the following links.
State Captains
PGR ANC Team
Moderators
Contact PGR
|
|
|
|
Directory
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Patriot Guard Riders Forum
|
|
|
| You are not authorized to post a reply.
|
|
| Author |
Messages |
|
Wescoot2 
Posts: 2991
Park Ridge, Illinois
 |
| 23 Jul 2006 3:08 PM |
 Alert
|
Home and safe........will follow up with my thoughts a little later.
Respects,
Ed |
|
"In an age of universal deceit telling the truth is a revolutionary act." George Orwell.
Cell 847-217-1862
If your gonna be One.....Be a BIG RED ONE
**Truth - You Can't Handle the TRUTH** X-Y-Z |
|
|
cortalan
Posts: 6
viola illinois
|
| 23 Jul 2006 7:57 PM |
Alert
|
This was my first mission, and I must say that I was very impressed with the order and discipline in which everything was done.......from the ride home from Princeton to the avenue of flags at the cemetery. WHAT AN AWESOME SIGHT!!!
I'm proud to be a part of this group, and I will do my best to be there whenever I am needed for a mission ride. It was great meeting you guys from the Quad Cities area, and Galesburg.....and Princeton....and the couple from St Louis.......and on and on and on. I'm not real good with names - but I know I'll remember your faces, and I hope to see all of you again - under happier circumstances of course.
Cort Winegard (the guy from Viola) |
|
|
|
|
Nailer101
Posts: 442
NW IL Senior Ride Captain/NE IA Ride Captain
|
| 23 Jul 2006 11:25 PM |
Alert
|
What a great bunch of folks from all over that came to honor PO Jerry Tharp......Fantastic to see so many new faces in the Wal-Mart lot ready to take their places on these missions.......Our presentations are becoming more and more fine tuned with each mission..........Great job folks..........
|
|
Nailer
Cell Number: (563) 676-7145 Office Number: (563) 326-1792
SSgt USMC 69-75
1st Recon Bn, Sniper Platoon 0321/8541/8654
Member CP^-^ "Diplomatic Regulator"
American Legion Post 26
ALR Post 27
STARVETS member
Marine Moms Honorary Member
Navy Families Honorary Member
Quad Cities Law Enforcement Officers Memorial Foundation member
IA/IL Master Hunter Education Instructor
GOE Eastern Iowa Coordinator and Diplomatic Specialist
All Era Veteran's Healing Fields Committee Chairman
All Vets Memorial Association Member
|
|
|
beetlejuice66
Posts: 4
|
| 24 Jul 2006 7:03 PM |
Alert
|
| It was an honor to be a part of this mission. This was my first, and I was overwhelmed by the amount of support. I am proud to be a part of the PGR. Darren "beetlejuice" Atkinson Princeton, Ia. |
|
|
|
|
harly69g
Posts: 8482
Mid-West Regional Capt.
KY,IN,OH,MI
Ride Capt.
Owensboro, KY
|
| 29 Jan 2007 8:11 AM |
Alert
|
wehrd1
Posts: 18
Keota, IA
|
| 27 Jul 2006 11:58 AM |
 Delete  Edit  Quote  Reply  Alert |
I just found the forum for this mission. This was the first mission I was able to attend due to my work schedule. Words can not express my feelings from be able to participate in this honor for one of our fallen soldiers.
I took my 9 y/o son along so he could experience first hand what Patriotism means through visualization and participation. We arrived at the rally point in the lot at WalMart at about 12.15 and participated in all aspects of the day and didn't leave the K'burg cemetery until after 8pm. My son did very well through out the day, and am glad I was able to share this with him. Thank you to the PGR at the cemetery for explaining to him the importance of not dipping the flag in salute, and all the other flag information he passed to him (and some new info to me as well)
I want to express my thanks to everyone involved in provided the water at all locations, and the ladies & men that supplied the sandwich makings at Walmart. We had left our house that morning around 9 a.m. to make it in time, and failed to take time to eat anything. Those cookies, chips & sandwiches were a Godsend to a hungry 9 y/o boy, not to mention his mom :)
I tell everyone I can about the PGR's and the website and how very I'm proud to be one! It lacks in comparison to what those gave that we are there to honor.
Ride Safe |
|
Colleen
|
| |
rhodgson
Posts: 108
Illinois
|
| 27 Jul 2006 9:11 AM |
Delete Edit Quote Reply Alert |
Here's an interesting URL to a flash presentation that QCOnline did. A very touching presentation.
http://qconline.com/multimedia/tharp/index.shtml |
|
Ron
"Don't Tread on me.....I TREAD BACK"
Callsign Starship
DAV
US Army 1971-1974 Defense Communications Agency
South East Asia
|
| |
Bear_1953
Posts: 146
Eldon, Iowa
|
| 27 Jul 2006 3:25 AM |
Delete Edit Quote Reply Alert |
First and foremost my deepest sympathy to the Tharp family.
Sorry I am so late getting this posted. Have had a lot going on and just haven’t taken the time. Well for my first mission this was a biggie. Yep I am the lost key guy over in Princeton Tuesday eve. Met some really nice folks over in Princeton. Like I have said before not good with names. Preach, Max, Big Lou and many others.
Friday evening I went over to the visitation. There I stood side by side with and met many more wonderful people. Wescoot, Scoot, Cowboy, Linda “PQ”, Mr. Plow, and others. A cousin of Jerry’s that is also a PGR member came out of the church and held my flag for me for awhile as I took a break. He was also a lot of help in Princeton. Sorry brother but I am bad with names and don’t remember. If you read this or anyone knows his name give me a shout please. When we rolled up the flags there, most of us went down to the local tavern. Where the owner put on a fish fry for us. We ate till we couldn’t walk out the door.
Saturday Wow all the support that showed up was unreal. I saw from a letter in the local paper where we upset one fellow, took some time from him making him wait. Sorry about that. As I have said in other posts you folks from ILL made us Iowa boys feel right at home with your welcomes. I saw some guys that are from my area there, and they never even said hey. I didn’t see them or their bikes at the church or cemetery ohhh well.
At the church it was like a well oiled machine the flags came out and every one was in line in no time flat. Others were involved but I can only use the names I know preach, max, and cowboy they were all over the place keeping the machine oiled thanks to all involved.
This being my first mission I was so humbled and honored when cowboy asked if I wanted to be in the escort. I declined saying I was not that experienced on gravel and there were a lot more there more deserving of that honor than me.
Wish we could have stuck around after words but the lateness of the hour. We had to head out. Hope I can meet some of you again some time under better circumstances.
Bear
|
|
Charlie "Bear" Neill
SE Iowa Ride Captain
& Iowa HOTH Coordinator |
| |
blueangel
Posts: 104
Center, Mo. (NE Mo.area) RWB Book MO. Coordinator
|
| 26 Jul 2006 8:13 AM |
Delete Edit Quote Reply Alert |
ok. ignore the last line......i was also sending this to a friend ....forgot to delete it.....man
we need a delete/proofread button here...LOL. and i placed this in the wrong post chris, i
didn't read first that you had a seperate thread for mission reports...sowwwrey!
hey i'm learning, cut me some slack big guy! LOL
ride safe PGR!..................Hollie (blueangel) |
|
People are like stained-glass windows. They sparkle and shine when the sun is out, but when the darkness sets in, their true beauty is revealed only if there is a light from within.
~ Elizabeth Kubler Ross
|
| |
blueangel
Posts: 104
Center, Mo. (NE Mo.area) RWB Book MO. Coordinator
|
| 26 Jul 2006 8:07 AM |
Delete Edit Quote Reply Alert |
Hello, my name is Hollie. I live in NE Mo. with my husband who is a mechanic, an alderman for our small town, a volunteer fireman, medic, but if you ask him what do you do he'll say he's a Patriot Guard Rider.
I'm battling cancer. In remission now, but my health is just not well. We decided to buy a motorcycle and tour our great USA as much as possible. Just a month or so ago we were in the Rocky Mtns. and became friends with a couple from Kansas. After riding and sharing the beauty there we noticed a small triangle yellow pin on their riding vests. When asked what it was, they told us to go to www.patriotguard.org and take a look around. We did...and in no time we signed up. As a mother of two sons, one that was in the US Marines I felt a kinship with other mothers who had sons far from home. Some not so lucky as me.
I can't explain the feeling as well as i'd like to for you reading this. I suppose a certain amount of pride is felt, belonging to a group that does so much and yet is just now getting their actions known to the public. More and more, sad to say, their help is needed as the wars go on and on. Regardless how you feel about us "being over there" as Americans we should support those brave young men and women for the ability to put all their "normal" dreams aside and spend their days in harms way.
I think of the Patriot Guard as the USO's of WW2 or the ladies who ran after the departing trains with cookies and hot coffee for the "boys" leaving many small towns across the states. I think of the Guard as a mass mixture of true American spirit from all walks of life showing support and at the same time teaching the next generation whats right.
Our first mission was in Kirksville Mo. My oldest son owns a Country Kitchen resturant there. While standing in a crowd of Guards I heard them talking about eating breakfast just down the road and seeing a sign on the front door. I listened in and had to smile when I heard the wording of that sign. "This establishment supports the Patriot Guard Riders. My parents are PGR's. You are VERY welcome here...protesters leave town.....yep! that's my son! Later while standing with my flag along with my husband i saw a young girl around age 12 or so. She was not figiting or swaying as she stood...but stood tall and held her gaze straight, her head as high as the flag that was three times her size. She was standing by her grandpa. Bless him for bringing her. She'll be forever reminded of our heros ten times over what a history book could ever teach her.
Yesterday's mission ended at a country cemetary right in the heartland. It was surrounded by corn fields and gravel roads. You could hear the crying of the birds flying over and the deep lonly sound of a far off cow bellowing...but it was the snaping and popping of hundreds of American flags that sounded out loud and clear.
Held by a bunch of folks from four states. Over 280 bikes lined up and strangers melted into brothers and sisters all for a common cause. I captured a picture of my husband in a quiet moment in prayer just before the family drove past us. It say's it all without words. I hope there is someway she can show it to you all.
WE are Patriot Guard Riders
WE ride with respect.
For our heros, their familys and their loved ones.
-Hollie and Vern Bastian
blueangel and car_doc4
Center, Mo.
|
|
People are like stained-glass windows. They sparkle and shine when the sun is out, but when the darkness sets in, their true beauty is revealed only if there is a light from within.
~ Elizabeth Kubler Ross
|
| |
ladyrider
Posts: 118
Il. Help on the Homefront Coordinater/Ride Captain/Treasurer
|
| 25 Jul 2006 10:30 PM |
Delete Edit Quote Reply Alert |
WELL I HAVE TAKEN A COUPLE OF DAYS TO COLLECT MY THOUGHT WHICH IS ALWAYS HARD FOR ME AFTER A MISSION
SINCE I HAVE A SON OVER THERE I JUST CANNOT EVEN BEGIN TO IMAGINE WHAT THESE FAMILIES GPO THRU.
OUR SON CALLED US ON SUNDAY AND I WAS SOOOO GLAD TO HEAR FROM HIM. I WANT TO SAY #1 THANK YOU JERRY FOR YOUR SACRIFICE.
AND THANKS TO THE THARP FAMILIES FOR INVITING US TO HONOR HIM.
I HAVE DONE ALOT OF FIRSTS THIS YEAR, GOT MY MOTORCYCLE LICENSE HAVE RIDDEN NOW ALMOST 4,000 MILES THIS YEAR HAVE DRIVEN IN HEAT, RAIN , BUGS AND NOW SOME OF THE WORST ROADS I COULD EVER IMAGINE. I THINK IT WAS ONLY BY GODS GRACE I DID NOT DROP MY BIKE AND
DISHONER THE MISSION FLAG I WAS CARRYING, I WAS PRAYING SOOOO HARD. BUT I GOT THROUGH IT AND WE ACCOMPLISHED
OUR MISSION...
I AM SO GLAD I HAVE MET ALL OF YOU MY FELLOW PGR BROTHERS AND SISTERS, I WAS NOT FEELING VERY WELL AT ALL WHEN WE GOT TO THE CEMETARY
AND WAS VERY RELIEVED WHEN WE GOT TO THE HOLIDAY INN IN GALESBURG. AND THERE I MADE A NEW FRIEND AND SHE
LKNOWS WHO SHE IS....UHNTIL WE ALL MEET AGAIN ....IN HAPPIER SITUATION....PLEASE ALL RIDE SAFE.....DEB (LADYRIDER)
P.S. MAX YOU DID AN EXCELLANT JOB.......YOU HAVE A HEART OF GOLD... AND WE ALL KNOW HOW BIG YOUR HEART IS
KEEP UP THE GOOD WORK... AND CHRIS MY SPECIAL THANKS TO YOU FOR ALWAYS BEING THERE WHEN WE NEED YOU. |
|
PROUD MOM OF S.P.C. ADAM VEACH (ARMY)ARRIVED HOME FROM IRAQ 12-6-06
I RIDE IN MEMORY FOR MY DAD (US. ARMY),WITH RESPECT FOR MY OLDER BROTHER LARRY (RETIRED NAVY), MY BROTHER JIM (HAPPYWOLF)( STILL ACTIVE AIRFORCE), MY YOUNGER BROTHER JASON(U.S. MARINES) AND MY SON ADAM (ARMY)
AND ALL OTHERS PAST AND PRESENT AND FUTURE !
...MAY THE CREATOR ALWAYS
WALK WITH YOU IN SPIRIT AND GUIDE YOU!
ALWAYS WALK THE GOOD ROAD. |
| |
bogiediver
Posts: 186
Woodstock, IL
|
| 25 Jul 2006 1:00 PM |
Delete Edit Quote Reply Alert |
Wow, is all I can say - great showing of people, all with the highest of respect shown.
I really am at a loss for words - if I try it'll end up being 10 pages, so let's leave it at 'Wow'.
Except for one thing - a very special 'Thank You' to Ma & Pa Bowman for the sandwiches, snacks and drinks - all without allowing us to help offset the cost. Great people - explains a lot of Greg and Mike's character - wonderful people to emulate.
And 'Thanks' to Max for all his effort and successfully pulling off a tough job.
Hope to never need to see you all again, but will be honored to stand alongside y'all when the call comes. |
|
-bogie
PGR -
- NE IL Ride Captain
- IL Red, White & Blue Book Coordinator
McHenry County, IL H.O.G.
American by Birth, Biker by Choice, Patriot Forever |
| |
TRACYFDS
Posts: 162
National HOTH Operations Mgr.
|
|
capi75rs
Posts: 73
(((BIG STICK))) IL ROAD CAPT.
|
| 25 Jul 2006 7:58 AM |
Delete Edit Quote Reply Alert |
| What a day, I had two missions to serve and would have serverd two more if needed. By the time I arrived at Wal Mart I could tell this would be big, I arrived @ 11:45 and saw a large gathering of bikes and cages, after parking the big stick in the center of the lot to load water and assist in the sign in, I placed Jerry's picture on the NEVER FORGET stick, as I stood up in the back of my truck to get a view of the number of bikes I started to get goosebumps. I could not see over all the bikes in the parking lot. Everywhere I looked I saw bikes and cages holding the most beautiful 3x5 red white and blue flags. By the time we headed for the church I knew I was on the largest mission I had seen. Upon arrival at the church, we lined the street again however this time we ran out of room. I got out of my truck and started lining the bikes 4 abrest, however we then ran out of room again, after speaking with LEO we decided to line the bikes and cages on the right hand side of the street leaving emergency route on the left and access to all driveways. Several of the GREAT CITIZENS of Galesburg then came out to street and started directing bikes to park in there drive ways and yards. WHAT A GREAT COMMUNITY! It took 4 full city block to get all the bikes and cages parked for this honoring. After we finally got parked I knocked on every door and got the names and addresses of these wonderful citizens to send a PGR thank you to. After I finished that I returned to the Water Tanker (my truck) and several members were already handing out water, to my surprise we ran out of water. 15+ cases of water GONE! Not to worry Frank and I ran back to Wal Mart and Travis and his crew loaded all the coolers back up with ice and water and gave us 10 extra cases. THANK YOU WAL MART!!!!!! I was among the group of riders that got misplaced during the trip to the cemetary, however after the roughly 20 of us pulled over we soon discovered that Patrick was following us like devoted K-9. He kindly informed us that about 15 miles back we were suppost to turn left and we kept on going straightt. Not to worry he said he knew how to get to the cemetary. In no time we were where we were suppost to be and still had a few hours to spare. Gary great job on recruting this fine example of a PGR member. After setting up in the flag line things went as well as expected, Thank GOD for sunglasses because when the 21 gun salute and taps started, so did the tears from my eyes. My family and I pray everyday at our evening meals and everyday we thank GOD for our heros and ask to keep them safe, Mr. Tharp we are still praying for you and we will keep your family in our prayers as well. THANK YOU for you sacrifice! Rod |
|
NEVER FORGET |
| |
otoole
Posts: 9
|
| 24 Jul 2006 5:29 PM |
Delete Edit Quote Reply Alert |
We'll agree with Rocky - the "road trip" from the church to the cemetary was something we will NEVER forget. Jerry kept the rain off of us as we traveled to his favorite places one last time before his final resting place. Thank you to the Tharps for inviting us to go along, I felt as if I personally knew Jerry before all was said and done. So much like the rest of us. God Bless Jerry, Rest In Peace.
Gary & Julie |
|
|
| |
ivetret
Posts: 855
|
|
mrplow
Posts: 1179
Galva, Illinois
|
| 24 Jul 2006 12:00 PM |
Delete Edit Quote Reply Alert |
How to put last weeks events into words? As a new member my first contact was with Max Howerter after emailing and advising I would be honored to help with the family’s request of an honor guard as the fallen heroes body lay in state. Max emailed and gave me a time on Wednesday to stand Honor Guard. I must say, this was one of the toughest things I have ever done.. Standing at parade rest Wednesday afternoon just 10 feet from fallen hero Petty Officer Tharp there was no way to not hear the family members as they would file through to view the body. How sad as they spoke of times gone by and how Petty officer Tharp loved his country and his service to it. Time and time again neighbors and friends would come by and spoke so highly of him and his service to country. Then Friday I met up with Cowboy in Galesburg and we rode in the rain to stand in honor at the calling hours. Meant Bear, Max, Ed (we scoot?) and the rest of the gang, Sorry I can’t remember everyone’s name. All stood proud as we honored P.O. Jerry and his family. Then came Saturday. Guess I realy did not know just what to expect. Got to the wal-mart staging area and wow, what a crowd. People from all over, and not just Illinois, but neiboring states as well. People passing out water and treats to eat, someone had a table with sandwiches and drinks for anyone who was hungry, and would not take any money for the food. Then finally, on the church to stand in honor with all my new “Brothers” and Honor our fallen hero. Sure was a lot for me to take in. On to the cemetery, just amazed at all the people. Must say my first mission was amazing. I just hope this is the last time a solder has to die for us to all get together. On a final note, Captain Max came over to me with a letter from State Captain Chris Brocksmith thanking me for my part in this mission. I tried to explain I felt I was just doing my part in honoring One of our country heroes and it was no big deal. ( I have been fighting cancer for two years now, and am disabled, but that is no excuse for not taking time to honor our war heroes) Though I walk slowly and with a cane, I’ll do it any time to stand in Honor with my PGR brothers. Time may be short, but we all must make good use of it!! My sincere condolences to the Tharp family. I hope that time will ease the pain. Officer Tharp will never be forgotten.
Rob Miller/Galva, Ill./ Mrplow
|
|
Rob Miller/ Galva Illinois
PGR Member since 6/13/2006
AMA Life member, American Legion Member,ALR
ILNG 1644th Trans. 1970-1976
Two year cancer survivor
If you want to know the character of a man, find out what his cat thinks of him
Most motorcycle problems are caused by the nut that connects the handlebars to the saddle.”
Sometimes it takes a whole tank full of fuel before you can think straight.
Whatever it is, it’s better in the wind.
Only a Biker knows why a dog sticks his head out of a car window
|
| |
Illinois Cowboy
Posts: 179
Galesburg,Il Northwestern Illinois Senior Ride Capt. Leader of the POSSE
|
| 24 Jul 2006 7:59 AM |
Delete Edit Quote Reply Alert |
| Not real sure how to put all this into words. This mission was to close for me as I know most of family. So it was very special and such an honor to have my brothers and sisters with me here in Mercer County. Thank you so much to everyone who was involved. The Operation Mercer County Soldiers went way above and beyond to help us and the Tharp family. Our people for helping with Honor Gaurd, this was my wife's first mission and she was out of tears at 9;30 when we finally got home that night. My Mother called Sunday morning to tell me how many people at church were talking about how PGR did such a good job of showing honor and respect. We had alot of new members ther all weekend, two that I know of signed on tues. night, were very helpful behind the scenes assisting myself with things that would come up at last minute. Patrick and Bob, let not forget Bob's wife Carol, thank you so much for being able to help at last minute. Remember people we do this for the Family, and I talked with a cousin of Jerry's last night, I know what we did helped. All that were there for any part of this THANK YOU, those were not I am sorry you could not. I know there is more that needs to be said, but THANK YOU to the Tharp family for letting HONOR a HERO. May GOD BLESS YOU ALL. |
|
USAF 71-75 S.A.C.
TITAN TWO MISSILES
combat crew member.
"Patriotism is not short, frenzied outbursts of emotion, but the tranquil and steady dedication of a lifetime." - Adlai Stevenson -------- IF YOU CAN'T STAND BEHIND OUR TROOPS, PLEASE FEEL FREE TO STAND IN FRONT OF THEM!!!! |
| |
Big rock
Posts: 700
Forum Moderator Illinois Ride Captain
|
| 24 Jul 2006 1:51 AM |
Delete Edit Quote Reply Alert |
Thank you to Jerry's family for allowing us to be involved with the celebration of Jerry's life. Thank you to state and ride captains for doing a good job and thank you to the LEO's, Fireman and everyone who did road details. Job well done!! Mom & Dad Bowman, Thank you so much!
I have thought about this for most of the day. So much to tell...........By now my wife and her family know about as much about the mission as any of us do. This mission for Jerry will stick with me for quite some time.
I left home at 0515, made it back home about 2200. I knew it would be a bit of a long day doing two missions, so no surprises here. Most of the day was like a few others that we will never forget. The road to Galesburg has become all to familiar. Each time I ride it, it seems to get longer. The rides back home seem a little more distant. The thoughts that go through your mind start as soon as you make that fist turn onto the highway to go back home.
I will share just a bit of what started going through my mind. ( I have written and rewritten this about 20 times So much to say, but I cut it short.. your welcome)
I thought about the mission that Jerry took on for his family and his country. I thought about Mrs. Tharp and Family and the mission she/they took on at the same time. It is people like this that made and keep this country. I cant say thank you enough.
Mrs. Tharp, You may not know this but....What you did Saturday for Jerry in regards to the trip through the country and cabin site will stick with me pretty much for the rest of my life. Those of us that had the Honor to escort you, were in turn blessed by you allowing us to take this very special trip. You let us be a part a something that was very special to you and your husband. I don't know how to thank you enough for that opportunity. I will NEVER FORGET.
I will finish with your family will stay in ours prayers.
Rocky
|
|
Rocky
ABATE Kiswaukee Valley
Why do we do this, you ask?
Why bother to stand out in wind and rain for someone unknown?
Why do we ride through torrents chilled to the bone?
The answer is simple: “Because, Never Again!”
Laurel B. Dinsmore May 8, 2006
|
| |
westwind
Posts: 28
Lee's Summit, MO
|
| 23 Jul 2006 10:15 PM |
Delete Edit Quote Reply Alert |
On a Saturday, I usually get up around 0830. The alarm was set for 0450. I was wide awake staring at the ceiling at 0420. I turned the alarm off so as not to wake the wife. After a quick shower and breakfast, I made a last minute check of the mission thread to see if there had been any changes, and a check of the weather. It was 62 degrees in Lee's Summit (MO), so out came the chaps and jacket. I kissed my wife goodbye and listened to the prerequisite "be careful, call often," then headed for the garage. Bike loaded, rear pegs down, kickstand up, and off I went into the dark of the morning (sorry if I woke any neighbors). I-70 to I-435 to I-35, I saw a couple of large deer in field outside Kearney, which reinforced my wifes "be careful." It was such a peaceful morning, I was almost alone on the road. The sun was starting to rise as I turned East on HY 36 to head accross MO. The sun started burning holes through the clouds, which would have made for some beautiful pictures. No time to stop, though, there was a hero to honor in Galesburg. I checked my time at a fuel stop in Macon. I was right on schedule. I turned North onto 24/61, and went through some beautiful small towns along the river. It was warming up by this time, so off came the jacket and chaps. Back East on 34, and I was in Galesburg before I knew it. I didn't know exactly where I was going, so I exited on Seminary Street and stopped to top off and ask for directions. I asked the clerk how to get to Wal-Mart, and his reply was "follow the other bikers." After getting the real directions, I pulled into the parking lot and got a lump in my throat. This was my third mission. I don't know why I get so suprised at the number of people that will come to honor a fallen hero. . .
There were so many people there, it was a little difficult to hear all of the ride briefing. As we headed back toward the bikes, someone asked what had been said and the reply they got was "follow the leader." I got a kick out of that. As we left the parking lot, I observed something that I think translates well about who we are: There were 250+ bikes, all makes and models, all parked different directions, and all being expected to leave from the same exit at the same time, yet we managed to get into two lines rather quickly without honking, screaming, finger gesturing, etc. I wish the 4th of July fireworks parking lot was this orderly! Once we were parked at the church, the efficiency with which we formed the flag lines was great, as usual. Thanks to everyone who brought water around and came behind to clean up after us. We couldn't do this without you!
Not being familiar with the area, I'm not sure if I was in the "lost" group or not. All I know is I followed the bikes in front of me until I was at the cemetary in Keithsburg. I'm sure I wasn't alone in being concerned about the weather when I heard the thunder start booming. I don't know how it didn't rain on us, but I know that if it had, we would have stood our ground against mother nature until our mission was accomplished just the same. There were sailors walking up and down the flag line as we waited for the procession to arrive, and they were thanking us. They put their lives on the line for our freedom, and they're thanking us for holding flags? I made it a point to say "No, thank you" to each of them. The lump in my throat came back as the procession pulled in, this time accompanied by tears welling up behind my sunglasses. They came back during the 21-gun salute and Taps, as they always seem to. I wanted to stay afterwords, but being unfamiliar with where I was going I wanted to be back in Galesburg before dark. I'm glad to see some of you stayed to visit with the family. It was so kind of them to extend the invitation during this difficult time in their lives.
I found the Holiday Inn Express at dusk. Though I could see the building, figuring out how to get to it proved more difficult (was I the only one that had that problem?). I finally figured it out and had a good nights rest. After breakfast and a call to my wife ("be careful, call often"), I was back on the road and home around 1630. As usual I met so many nice people, but names escape me. Thanks to everyone who participated.
Once again, my sincere condolences and heartfelt gratitude to the Tharp family. Though you will never forget, I hope that time will ease the pain. |
|
|
| |
ivetret
Posts: 855
|
|
veach
Posts: 129
Illinois asst. state captain-posse member,bus driver for grand babies, ^+^
|
| 23 Jul 2006 7:51 PM |
Delete Edit Quote Reply Alert |
PETTY OFFICER THARP
Usally takes me a while to collect my thoughts after a misson and this one has proved to be no different. Thank you to the tharp family for inviting us to honor this hero. Our ride captain max did an outstanding job of organizing this misson. And hats off to all who helped him. This hard hit community again came forward in a show of respect and heartfelt loss. Thanks to the galesburg police, county and state leo who provided assistance on this day. The sight of all the flags at the cemetary was incredible. The wife and i stayed and enjoyed dinner after the service and met several people who knew PO tharp. This man had a lot of friends and will truely be missed. Petty officer Tharp you will never be forgotten.--------veach |
|
"Let every nation know, whether it wishes us well or ill, that we shall pay any price, bear any burden, meet any hardship, support any friend, oppose any foe, to assure the survival and the success of liberty". JFK Quote
|
| |
howerter1
Posts: 552
Galesburg, ILL; National Administrator Public Relations & Media; ILL Ride Captain
|
| 23 Jul 2006 7:38 PM |
Delete Edit Quote Reply Alert |
| One thing I forgot to add, as we left Galesburg on the procession, 2 planes came over us very low and flew escort all the way to Alpha. Quite a sight and honor for this fallen hero. |
|
Max
US Army Retired E8, VietNam 66-67 "We should not mourn that such men died, but we should thank God that such men lived" General George Patton |
| |
ivetret
Posts: 855
|
| 23 Jul 2006 4:14 PM |
Delete Edit Quote Reply Alert |
|
My Ride Report for Petty Officer Tharp’s Mission
My husband and I left Springfield about 7AM for the Bushnell mission and then on to Galesburg for back-to-back missions and didn’t get home until 12:30 AM.
For once I felt really, really small holding a flag in such a large group of Patriot Guard. I knew there would be a lot of people based on the size of the forum - over 270 bikes alone. The largest group I’ve been with. The “show of hands” during the ride briefing that claimed this was a “first mission” in this highly hit region also surprised me. Galesburg area has been saturated with fallen heroes. Most of us are really getting familiar with the surrounding area and ‘the drill’. Max, the ride captain, updated a previous mission plan and increased the size of it. We had to leave Galesburg in groups and I was with the group that DID NOT GET LOST led by WeScoot.
This was not just Illinois but America that honored Jerry. We had people from all over. I even saw a bike with Oregon plates. Besides, I felt I’d left Illinois seeing all the sand with wild cactus growing in the cemetery, Big River State Park seemed more like the Northern Wisconsin woods, and a few camels on a farm on route 41 --- well you know what that reminded me of.
We accepted the family’s invite to stay for the meal and got to see more memorabilia of Jerry’s life inside. My biggest fear is that routine of these missions will grow impersonal without viewing these displays. It got really hot during the day and I didn’t expect to be riding at dusk and got cold on the return. I pulled out my trusty gear from HARDBITE’s store (*plug*) to survive the return to Galesburg. We got back to Wal-Mart about 9PM to load up the trailer. Afterward, Frank wanted some beer and we went to look at the Hero Wall in Wal-Mart. Jerry’s picture had already been framed there.
I remember those I met but will fail the names because we have faces, icons, real names, and forum names to match together. Most of all, I know that everyone there shared a common bond for our support or our troops. Those that I remember most was the Rider from Belvedere, Mike, The man who gave me a POW/MIA magnet for my gas tank (I’ll ‘never forget’ when I fill up), Angels for the great pin, and the Man from MO who helped me hold my flag when the wind was about to turn me into the ‘Flying Nun’. I was especially appreciative to the man who retrieved the PGR window flag we lost on the highway.
Max, you may have a bigger whistle, and size matters. Just remember, I adopted a Virago and American Heritage dictionary defines Virago as “A woman regarded as NOISY, scolding, or domineering.” My whistle is louder size-wise! Yours barely toots! Poor fellow is afraid to post his own ride report (and rightly so because he can't spell flag).
Just saw a clip on CNN (Sunday) regarding the garage that was built for him while gone.
OMG, I can’t shut up!
“In Remembrance” website has a Guest Book for Petty Officer 1st Class Jerry A. Tharp
http://www.legacy.com/Guestbook.asp?Page=Guestbook&PersonID=18518750
The Iraq Page-Remembering Those who Lost Their Lives in the Iraq War of 2003 - 2006
http://iraq.pigstye.net/article.php/TharpJerryA
“Salute prepared for Aledo's fallen hero“ from the Quad City Times
(great for those of us who didn’t know him besides being a fallen brother at arms)
http://www.qctimes.com/articles/2006/07/19/news/local/doc44bdcdd48d32f719590884.txt
|
|
|
| |
cgbrocksmith
Posts: 1116
Quincy, IL - "Defend Those Who Defended Us"
TOU Enforcement Unit
|
| 23 Jul 2006 3:34 PM |
Delete Edit Quote Reply Alert |
|
RIDE REPORT FOR RIDE CAPTAIN MAX HOWERTER
An outstanding display of support and respect was witnessed by all attending Petty Officer 1st Class Jerry A. Thorp's service in Keithsburg on Saturday.
The Patriot Guard Riders had a total of 286 Motorcycles, 14 vans, cars and trucks, with a total of 330 people. Riders for all over Illinois, Iowa, Missouri and Wisconsin were in attendance.
Special Thanks: All the Ride Captain for assisting, Soldiers Angels, Rod and Tom (flags and Water), Mary Ho and Tracyflds for going up and down the line to insure our riders had water. Mom and Dad Bowman for bringing sandwich food for all. What a great bunch of people the Bowman family is. Gary and Patrick for doing all the things they did to make this mission one great one. Galesburg Police, Illinois State Police and Mercer County Department did an outstand job. HyVee of Galesburg for providing us the staging area, ice and water.
Gary Schrock (Illinois Cowboy) did a outstanding job of contacting key people involved with this mission and deserves a large amount of praise for the courtesy, respect and professionalism he displayed during all aspects of this mission.
Many citizens were lined in the street and waving flags. Fireman and police were standing at attention in all area. Fire Trucks with the very large American handing down was outstanding.
The 20 bikes in the procession had to travel up and down hills, gravel, pot holes, dust and light rain on some REAL country roads. How proud they made me.
Gary and Patrick CEMETERY DETAIL: What a sight it was to see all of those American Flags flying in the wind when we arrived. You are the greatest.
All of the Patriot Guard Riders exhibited what we are made out of. "Honor and Respect". You made me proud and I know you made others proud of our organization also. The family, friend’s guests, LEO's and others told me several times. We made a large difference in a lot of lives on this day.
Thank you to the Tharp family for inviting us and allowing us the opportunity to show our respect, honor, and become part of your family during this difficult time.
Max "howerter1" Howerter
Illinois Ride Captain
|
|
"To Care For Him Who Shall Have Borne The Battle" - Abraham Lincoln
President Abraham Lincoln stated in the Gettysburg Address:
"From these honored dead we take increased
devotion to that cause for which they here gave the last full measure of
devotion - that we here highly resolve that these dead shall not have died in
vain."
Dying for Freedom isn't the worst that could happen...BEING FORGOTTEN IS
Patriot Guard Riders of Illinois Mission Calendar:
http://my.calendars.net/pgrofillinoissta
Respect, not law, counters the obnoxious!
|
| |
cgbrocksmith
Posts: 1116
Quincy, IL - "Defend Those Who Defended Us"
TOU Enforcement Unit
|
| |
|
In Memory: Terri L. Newman 11/64 - 07/05
In Memory: Caleb S. Newman 12/07
Senior Ride Capt for countys of: Crittenden, Caldwell, Union, Webster, Mclean, Hopkins, Muhlenburg, Henderson, Daviess, Ohio, Hancock.
KY State site: www.pgrofky.com
IN State site: www.indianapatriotguard.org
OH State site: www.ohiopgr.org
MI State site: www.pgrmichigan.org |
|
|
|
| You are not authorized to post a reply. |
|
|
|
ActiveForums 3.6
|
|
|
|