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Patriot Guard Riders Forum
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| Author |
Messages |
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ultraclassic 
Posts: 2265
Proctor, WV
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| 12 Apr 2007 2:39 PM |
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******MISSION ESCORT UPDATE******
Word has been received that Joshua will be arriving in Lexington, KY tomorrow (Friday) at approximately 2145.
A 6-man U.S. Army Honor Guard will be there to transfer Joshua to the hearse and will participate in escorting him to Teays Valley, WV.
I am fully aware of the lateness of his arrival so, for that reason, the family is NOT being told that the PGR will also participate in this escort. HOWEVER, conversation with CAO indicates they were very anxious to have us there when initially informed.
At the present time, my intentions are to trailer my bike to the mission for in Ashland, KY tomorrow, for Cpl Cantrell. I will remain in the area, weather permitting, and proceed to Lexington to participate in the escort for Joshua.
I would like to have DEFINITE CONFIRMATION from ANYONE who wishes to participate in this most honorable escort. Please keep in mind, it is approximately 160 miles from Lexington to Teays Valley. Let me know ASAP of your intentions, please.
WIth Respects,
Joe Cumblidge
WV State Captain |
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"This nation will remain the land of the free only so long as it is the home of the brave." Elmer Davis
Joe Cumblidge
West Virginia State Captain
UOV HOG Chapter
RM1 USCG 1969-78
(304) 455-4036 - Home
(304) 588-1278 - Cell
www.wvpatriotguard.org
In Memory of the crew of HU16E CGNR 2123, lost on SAR mission off Corpus Christi, TX on 21 September 1973:
LCDR Francis W. Miller (CG Aviator #1164)
LTJG Jerald M. Mack (CG Aviator #1567)
AD1 Harold D. Brown, Jr.
AM2 Benjamin R. Gaskins, Jr.
AT2 John F. Harrison
AT2 John P. Pledger
Montani semper liberi (Mountaineers are always free)
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Zinobile
Posts: 781
Robinson, PA - RC Region 9
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| 12 Apr 2007 3:43 PM |
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Condolences from our family to Spc. Wilcoxen's loved ones. May God Almighty bless and keep you as you suffer through this terrible loss.
Joe |
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"If we really wanted to honor our Boys, why don't we let them sit on the reviewing stands and make the people march by?" - Will Rogers |
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Slowhand
Posts: 4057
Northeastern, Maryland Senior Chaplain & Ride Captain
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| 12 Apr 2007 6:09 PM |
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| I would like to extend my deepest condolences to the family and friends in this very sad time in your lives . My prayers are that our GOD may bring peace and comfort to all of you during this tragic time. Please know that not just me but a country full of people like me owe you a dept that can never be repaid , but please take solace in the fact that your loved one is now with our lord in heaven. We are all brothers and sisters in arms and we don't forget one of our own, rest in peace your mission is complete and now it's time for you to rest . May GOD bless each and everyone of you |
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Russ "Slowhand"
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magsemail
Posts: 1472
Southgate, Michigan
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| 13 Apr 2007 8:41 AM |
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| My sincere condolences to you in your loss of Josh. I am humbled and will be forever grateful for the sacrifices made by Josh and many others fighting for my freedom. May God bless you, and help you through this time of great difficulty. God Bless America!! |
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Special Missions R/C - Region #2, MI
Riding in honor of my late father Thomas Kucharek-Army (101st Airborne)
Guardian Angels For Soldier's Pet
www.guardianangelsforsoldierspet.org
Proverbs 3:5-6
Trust in the LORD with all your heart and lean not on your own understanding; in all your ways
acknowledge him, and HE will make your paths straight. |
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harly69g
Posts: 8579
Mid-West Regional Capt.
KY,IN,OH,MI
Ride Capt.
Owensboro, KY
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| 13 Apr 2007 2:26 PM |
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KY will have a flag line to bring SPC Josh Wilcoxen home when he arrives at the airport tonight.
God Bless the family & friends of this American Hero.
SPC Josh Wilcoxen you will be riding on the wings of Angels. |
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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 |
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ultraclassic
Posts: 2265
Proctor, WV
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| 13 Apr 2007 5:30 PM |
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*************ITINERARY INFORMATION FOR ARRIVAL IN LEXINGTON************
I apologize for the lateness in posting this but just returned from the mission in Ashland, KY and learned this information as I was on the road.
For anyone able to be present, Josh will be arriving in Lexington, KY on Delta Flight 1445. CAO states that in her conversation, today, with the Cargo Manager, he advises this particular flight is generally ALWAYS early, usually arriving around 2120-25.
For this reason, he advises all who wish to stand a Flag Line to Honor Josh to arrive at the airport NLT 2115, to enable all the security measures to be completed.
Once the aircraft arrives, it is understood that it will be moved, probably, to the Delta Cargo Terminal at Gate #5, allowing a less public transfer to the hearse. This will also allow the family, Army Honor Guard and PGR members to be at the aircraft as the transfer occurs.
Once Josh has been transferred, PGR members are released. IF some have chosen to travel on 2-wheels and still desire to assist in escorting him home, it is my understanding that you will be permitted to do so, but I would ask all to be cautious of the forecast weather conditions for tonight in the Lexington area.
CAO was to meet with the family today at 1600 to finalize arrangements for Josh's services. What is known at this time is they will be held next Tuesday and Wednesday, April 17-18. Times and mission info will be posted as soon as it becomes available.
My sincere, heartfelt appreciation is extended to all members who have expressed a desire to Welcome Josh home tonight. I know, with 100% certainty, this will be a very emotional site for his family and will be appreciated tremendously.
An extra "Thank You" to Greg for assisting in getting this information out to KY PGR members. Without you and your members, this would not be possible. Thank you, sir!
Respects,
Joe
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"This nation will remain the land of the free only so long as it is the home of the brave." Elmer Davis
Joe Cumblidge
West Virginia State Captain
UOV HOG Chapter
RM1 USCG 1969-78
(304) 455-4036 - Home
(304) 588-1278 - Cell
www.wvpatriotguard.org
In Memory of the crew of HU16E CGNR 2123, lost on SAR mission off Corpus Christi, TX on 21 September 1973:
LCDR Francis W. Miller (CG Aviator #1164)
LTJG Jerald M. Mack (CG Aviator #1567)
AD1 Harold D. Brown, Jr.
AM2 Benjamin R. Gaskins, Jr.
AT2 John F. Harrison
AT2 John P. Pledger
Montani semper liberi (Mountaineers are always free)
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mattsmom
Posts: 1503
North Beach, Maryland
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| 13 Apr 2007 7:22 PM |
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| Thank you, SPC Wilcoxen, for your unselfish service to our nation, and for your willingness to defend and protect our freedoms. You are a true American hero; as a nation we appreciate you, and mourn your loss. To Josh's family, I offer my prayers and support. I hope happy memories of your dear Josh help to eventually ease the pain you endure today. I thank you for Josh; I am so proud of him for his dedication to our country. God bless you. Julie Francis, Matt's Mom |
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Thank you for your service and sacrifice in defending and protecting our freedoms. As a nation we mourn your loss, and we will remember you always as a true American hero. To the family, I offer my prayers and support. I understand a little of what you are going through-my son, a Marine LCpl, was killed in Iraq. I pray wonderful memories of your dear warrior help eventually to ease the pain you endure today. Your hero will never be forgotten-he leaves a legacy of honor and courage that few will ever achieve. God bless you. Julie Francis, Matt's Mom |
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ultraclassic
Posts: 2265
Proctor, WV
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| 13 Apr 2007 7:27 PM |
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At this moment, I am filled with IMMENSE PRIDE!!
Having just spoke with Capt. Mullins, I have learned that Joshua has arrived safely at Bluegrass Airport, Lexington, KY.
He and his family were greeted by 18, count 'em, 18 VERY DEDICATED KY PGR MEMBERS!!!
My hat is off to EACH and EVERY one of you who took time out of your lives to provide Josh and his family a very appropriate, well deserved, Honorable and Respectful return home.
Thank you and God Bless all of you for standing PGR proud!
With Much Respects,
Joe |
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"This nation will remain the land of the free only so long as it is the home of the brave." Elmer Davis
Joe Cumblidge
West Virginia State Captain
UOV HOG Chapter
RM1 USCG 1969-78
(304) 455-4036 - Home
(304) 588-1278 - Cell
www.wvpatriotguard.org
In Memory of the crew of HU16E CGNR 2123, lost on SAR mission off Corpus Christi, TX on 21 September 1973:
LCDR Francis W. Miller (CG Aviator #1164)
LTJG Jerald M. Mack (CG Aviator #1567)
AD1 Harold D. Brown, Jr.
AM2 Benjamin R. Gaskins, Jr.
AT2 John F. Harrison
AT2 John P. Pledger
Montani semper liberi (Mountaineers are always free)
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ky-softail
Posts: 0
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| 13 Apr 2007 11:18 PM |
Alert
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Mission report - SPC Joshua Wilcoxen
13 April 2007 - Bluegrass Airport, Lexington, KY
The Patriot Guard Riders had the privilege of honoring Specialist Joshua Wilcoxen upon the arrival of his remains at Blue Grass Airport, Lexington, Kentucky, with a flag line which included eighteen individuals who were present to solemnly honor this young man who served our Nation. Members of Specialist Wilcoxen's family and close friends were also present to meet the incoming flight on the tarmac at the airport.
Captain Mullins and Sergeant Major Porterfield, Casualty Assistance Officers for the West Virginia Army National Guard, were instrumental in helping the Patriot Guard Riders with this mission. The Patriot Guard Riders also owe thanks to the Delta Cargo Manager and Blue Grass Airport Police for allowing us to walk the tarmac to the plane for the transfer of the casket to the care of the U.S. Army Honor Guard. With their assistance, we pray that we were able to offer a small measure of comfort to his grieving family.
A special thanks to the West Virginia Patriot Guard Riders and their State Captain, Joe Cumblidge, for allowing the Kentucky Patriot Guard Riders to participate in this portion of the mission to honor Specialist Wilcoxen.
Visitation and funeral services are anticipated to happen on April 17-18 with times yet to be determined. Please continue to monitor this forum for updates as they are made known to the Patriot Guard Riders.
Phil Roberts - Kentucky Ride Captain, Patriot Guard Riders
Assisted by Walt Oster and Art Decker
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ultraclassic
Posts: 2265
Proctor, WV
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| 14 Apr 2007 7:08 AM |
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As always, here is another perfect example of there being NO borders within the PGR. Although confirmed information on Josh's return was slow in coming, necessitating our need to cancel his escort, our brothers and sisters in Kentucky were very quick to step up and say they desired to be at the airport anyway, simply to show their respects.
I do not know of all the members that attended last night, unfortunately, so I am unable to thank each one individually and personally. I am relatively certain that, besides Phil, Walt and Art, Debora Nichols of Blue Star Mothers of the Bluegrass and Rev. John Wyatt were there also. To each and every one of you, I sincerely "Thank You" for what you did for Josh and his family. To all that also attended that are unknown to me, I also offer a heartfelt "Thank You" for stepping up and taking time from your lives, especially at that late hour, to stand in silent tribute.
Each and every participant, from where ever you may call home, know this with complete certainty; We here in West Virginia will never forget how you answered the bell to pay Honor and Respect to another American Hero. Your unselfishness and devotion shall someday be rewarded tenfold. I, personally, would be proud and honored to stand with any of you, at any time, in any place.
From the bottom of my heart, I humbly say "Thank You" and salute each and every one.
Respects,
Joe |
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"This nation will remain the land of the free only so long as it is the home of the brave." Elmer Davis
Joe Cumblidge
West Virginia State Captain
UOV HOG Chapter
RM1 USCG 1969-78
(304) 455-4036 - Home
(304) 588-1278 - Cell
www.wvpatriotguard.org
In Memory of the crew of HU16E CGNR 2123, lost on SAR mission off Corpus Christi, TX on 21 September 1973:
LCDR Francis W. Miller (CG Aviator #1164)
LTJG Jerald M. Mack (CG Aviator #1567)
AD1 Harold D. Brown, Jr.
AM2 Benjamin R. Gaskins, Jr.
AT2 John F. Harrison
AT2 John P. Pledger
Montani semper liberi (Mountaineers are always free)
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ultraclassic
Posts: 2265
Proctor, WV
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| 14 Apr 2007 6:58 PM |
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****************PRELIMINARY MISSION INFORMATION*********************
Although this is considered to be preliminary information, according to Capt Mullins, no changes are expected. The family will be meeting with the funeral director tomorrow to solidify these plans. Any changes will be posted immediately.
Visitation and Services will be held at the Chapman Funeral Home, 3941 Teays Valley Road, Hurricane, WV 25526, phone (304) 757-7531.
Visitation will be Tuesday, April 17, from 1800-2100. PGR participation is requested.
Services planned for Wednesday, April 18, at 1000.
PGR is requested to provide escort from the funeral home to Josh's final resting in Evergreen Cemetery, Fraziers Bottom. Missing man formation has been requested by the family. We will be proud to honor this request, if enough attend on 2 wheels.
Staging times will be announced on Sunday, but anticipate them to be 1730 on Tuesday, pre-ride briefing at 1745 w/KSU by 1750 and 0915 Wednesday, 0930 briefing, KSU 0945 to enable us to be in our flag line prior to 1000.
Staging location will be the Liberty Square Mall, located on WV SR 34 at I-64, exit 39. After entering the mall, turn right at the "T" and proceed to the parking lot directly across from Bob Evans. Enter the parking lot and stage parallel to the landscaping to the extreme right of the parking lot.
Coming in from WEST: Take I 64 to exit 39, make left at light. Get in right hand lane to turn right into staging area (Liberty Square Mall) and motels.
Coming in from EAST: Take I 64 to exit 39, make right to go to staging area (Liberty Square Mall) and motels.
Coming in from NORTH: US Rt 35 to State Rt 34, turn left at Liberty Square Mall.
Those travelling down I-77S, take I-64E and follow directions as coming in from the West.
For those wishing to attend both the visitation and services, discounted motel rates have been secured at the Day's Inn (304) 729-3006 for $40.00 + tax per night. Identify yourself as Patriot Guard Rider or PGR when calling. Accomodations also available at the Red Roof Inn for their regular rate of $43.49 + tax per night. Both are located behind Liberty Square Mall.
Bob "T-Bone" Smith from Hurricane is the Temporary RC for this mission. I owe him a tremendous debt of gratitude for the efforts he has put forth thus far in obtaining our staging location as well as the discounted motel rates. He will be travelling with the funeral director tomorrow to scout the cemetery location, however, it is known that this is a very old and seldom used cemetery, located on a hill. All riders are urged to ensure you have a kickstand plate readily available.
Additional information will be posted tomorrow, or this itinerary will be marked as FINAL.
All those planning to attend on two wheels, remember, WEST VIRGINIA IS A HELMET STATE.
Respects,
Joe
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"This nation will remain the land of the free only so long as it is the home of the brave." Elmer Davis
Joe Cumblidge
West Virginia State Captain
UOV HOG Chapter
RM1 USCG 1969-78
(304) 455-4036 - Home
(304) 588-1278 - Cell
www.wvpatriotguard.org
In Memory of the crew of HU16E CGNR 2123, lost on SAR mission off Corpus Christi, TX on 21 September 1973:
LCDR Francis W. Miller (CG Aviator #1164)
LTJG Jerald M. Mack (CG Aviator #1567)
AD1 Harold D. Brown, Jr.
AM2 Benjamin R. Gaskins, Jr.
AT2 John F. Harrison
AT2 John P. Pledger
Montani semper liberi (Mountaineers are always free)
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ultraclassic
Posts: 2265
Proctor, WV
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| 15 Apr 2007 5:28 AM |
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***********************DIRECTIONS CORRECTION!!***********************
Please take note!
For those travelling South on I-77, take I-64 WEST at Charleston (toward Huntington) not East as I originally stated.
If travelling down from Ohio or Northern West Virginia and you wish to avoid Charleston, pick up OH Route 7 and follow it down to the Gallipolis area where you will cross the Silver Memorial Bridge and pick-up WV Route 2S. Follow this down till you go through the small community of Lesage and you'll see signs directing you to U.S. Route 60/I-64. Turn left and go about 3 miles till you come up on I-64 then proceed EAST to Hurricane. This is a very scenic ride over good roads.
Current forecast for Hurricane area is for sunny skies w/temperatures in the low 60's and a 10% chance of showers on Tuesday. Wednesday's forecast is for cloudy skies, temperatures in the upper 50's and a 30% chance of showers.
I apologize for any confusion in my directions. Did this from memory instead of GPS!
All please ride safe!
Respects,
Joe |
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"This nation will remain the land of the free only so long as it is the home of the brave." Elmer Davis
Joe Cumblidge
West Virginia State Captain
UOV HOG Chapter
RM1 USCG 1969-78
(304) 455-4036 - Home
(304) 588-1278 - Cell
www.wvpatriotguard.org
In Memory of the crew of HU16E CGNR 2123, lost on SAR mission off Corpus Christi, TX on 21 September 1973:
LCDR Francis W. Miller (CG Aviator #1164)
LTJG Jerald M. Mack (CG Aviator #1567)
AD1 Harold D. Brown, Jr.
AM2 Benjamin R. Gaskins, Jr.
AT2 John F. Harrison
AT2 John P. Pledger
Montani semper liberi (Mountaineers are always free)
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ron1ok
Posts: 715
Triadelphia WV
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| 15 Apr 2007 6:30 AM |
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SPC Wilcoxen,
Thank your for your service to this country. Your sacrifice will not be forgotten. To the family of SPC. Wilcoxen, may God bless you with peace and comfort during this hard time. Josh is a true American hero.
Ride safe,
Ron J. |
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Ron Jones USMC '74 to '78
WV ASC North
WV RC District 6
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Uffda
Posts: 13696
Wonder Lake, IL
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| 15 Apr 2007 8:14 AM |
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Our sincere condolences to the family and friends of SPC Josh Wilcoxen. May God help you though this difficult time and sorrow. Know your son was and is a Hero to us all. Our thoughts and prayers are with you always. He will never be forgotten.
Rest Safely and Securely in God's Loving Arms, Josh.
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. |
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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.
In Memory of Jon Dreymann 08-13-09 WWR NRC Who left us way too soon. Farvel min venn. |
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ultraclassic
Posts: 2265
Proctor, WV
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| 15 Apr 2007 11:44 AM |
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********************FINAL ITINERARY************************
CAO reports all information previously supplied, with the exception of the start of services and staging time for visitation is FINAL. The services will begin at 1100 instead of 1000. Staging/briefing/ksu times remained unchanged.
For the viewing on Tuesday, the family is scheduled to arrived at the funeral home at 1700. For that reason, staging will be at 1600, pre-mission briefing at 1630 and ksu at 1645. It is my intent to be in our flag line prior to their arrival.
Time of arrival for the services is unknown at this time but, in the event they plan to arrive prior to 1000, our schedule will be adjusted accordingly.
Funeral home arranging for Sheriff's escort Wednesday. Cemetary 14.5 miles from funeral home last 3.5 miles on narrow 2 lane requiring single file. Curving road but only one that is somewhat tight. Parking will be about 150 to 200 meters from cemetary on packed gravel for our part, it includes a driveway to a home that we have gotten permission to block.
A meeting will be held at 9 AM Tuesday with interested parties to finalize everything; route to cemetary may be changed to accommodate family needs, but will not impact us in a severe manner. Actually may be better. Any change will be noted in ride briefing.
I will be leaving for Hurricane on Tuesday around noon. If anyone needs any further information, please contact me on my cell at (304) 588-1278. I will be out of internet touch until my return Wednesday afternoon/evening.
All who are able, please make every effort to stand for this young American Soldier.
Respects,
Joe |
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"This nation will remain the land of the free only so long as it is the home of the brave." Elmer Davis
Joe Cumblidge
West Virginia State Captain
UOV HOG Chapter
RM1 USCG 1969-78
(304) 455-4036 - Home
(304) 588-1278 - Cell
www.wvpatriotguard.org
In Memory of the crew of HU16E CGNR 2123, lost on SAR mission off Corpus Christi, TX on 21 September 1973:
LCDR Francis W. Miller (CG Aviator #1164)
LTJG Jerald M. Mack (CG Aviator #1567)
AD1 Harold D. Brown, Jr.
AM2 Benjamin R. Gaskins, Jr.
AT2 John F. Harrison
AT2 John P. Pledger
Montani semper liberi (Mountaineers are always free)
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Doogle
Posts: 46
NW New Jersey
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| 16 Apr 2007 9:00 AM |
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| My sincere condolences to the family and friends of SPC Josh Wilcoxen, 22. Rest easy Josh. |
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USAF 68-73
Ubon Thailand"69"
8th TFW Wolf Pack
408MMS ...AMMO |
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TMR
Posts: 2996
Willow Springs IL
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| 16 Apr 2007 9:45 AM |
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Straight to heaven....
"There is no greater love", say the Lord, "than to lay down your life for a friend".
Thank you and God Bless you, SPC Wilcoxen, for being willing to do just that.
TMR |
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BelgianArmy
Posts: 858
Brussels, Belgium
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| 16 Apr 2007 1:01 PM |
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My sincerest condolences to the family and friends of this American Hero.
Rest in Peace...
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Chris from Belgium
Proud PGR Member #3787
International RWB book list coordinator
For the RWB forum, click here: Red, White, and Blue Book
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hollywood68
Posts: 761
Pittsburgh, PA
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| 17 Apr 2007 2:16 PM |
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My condolences to the family, friends and community of SPC Josh Wilcoxen. God's Speed.
Honor and Respect
Hollywood |
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USAF - 68-72
Former Western Pennsylvania Senior Ride Captain
Former Pennsylvania Assistant State Captain
Former Pennsylvania State Captain
Pennsylvania Ride Captain
The 9.12 Project
"A governement big enough to give you everything you want is big enough to take away everything you have" -Thomas Jefferson |
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Combat Medic
Posts: 19
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| 17 Apr 2007 8:06 PM |
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To the Family of SPC. Josh Wilcoxen :
You have my deepest sympathies, and I wish there was more I could do than to just send this comment, but I worked with the 101ST. Airborne when I was in Vietnam and they are a great unit. I'm sure that you were a great soldier and I appreciate the fact that you volunteered for the Army and went to Iraq to fight for our freedom. Thank you and again my condolences to the Family, friends and fellow Soldiers of Josh's.
Peace and Love, "Doc" Wetmore
Combat Medic
Vietnam 67 - 68
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windsinger
Posts: 2600
Medina,Ohio
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| 18 Apr 2007 11:51 AM |
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| MY SINCERE CONDOLENCES TO THE FAMILY AND FRIENDS OF SPC. JOSH WILCOXEN. |
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"HONOR TO THE SOLDIER AND SAILOR EVERYWHERE,WHO BRAVELY BEARS HIS COUNTRY'S CAUSE. HONOR ALSO TO THE CITIZEN WHO CARES FOR HIS BROTHER IN THE FIELD,AND SERVES, AS HE BEST CAN, THE SAME CAUSE. "
ABRAHAM LINCOLN
" NO MAN IS ENTITLED TO THE BLESSING OF FREEDOM UNLESS HE BE VIGILANT IN ITS PRESERVATION."
GEN. DOUGLAS MACARTHUR
"SEMPER PARATUS" USCG |
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ultraclassic
Posts: 2265
Proctor, WV
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| 19 Apr 2007 10:59 AM |
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***********************MISSION REPORT***********************
First, please accept my apologies for being late in filing this. Of the many missions I have attended since my involvement in this great organization, this one had a most profound effect on my psyche and it has taken a while for me to compose my thoughts. God willing, I'll be able to express everything properly and will not omit anyone or anything.
I must begin this report by expressing my deepest gratitude to our newest West Virginia Ride Captain, Bob Smith, for without him this mission would never have been accomplished. Bob, with no previous experience or guidance, fulfilled every single aspect of setting this up with the Funeral Director, LEO and manager of the Day's Inn who was gracious enough to offer a discount to our members who stayed overnight. He accomplished this even while having many issues to deal with in his own personal family. For that I, and everyone that attended this mission will be eternally grateful.
Next, I owe a tremendous debt of gratitude to Capt. Amanda Mullins, WV-ARNG, our CAO who so diligently worked with everyone involved with this terrible tragedy and ensured that all went according to plan, even after learning that her unit is about to be deployed to the Sandbox. I know, if she reads this, I will have some repurcussions for mentioning it but I sincerely hope she understands WHY I've put it here. As other members of her unit were mentioning it to others involved, it is my wish that she will not think I have broken my vow of secrecy. Captain M is truly an asset to the West Virginia Army National Guard and will be sorely missed and well thought of during her deployment, as will ALL members of her unit. My thoughts and prayers are with you Amanda.
We met at the staging area on Tuesday, MOST of us arriving by the posted time. I say that because I was the only one that was late. We had, I believe, 7 members total when we arrived at the funeral home but welcomed 3 others during the course of our stay. Of those standing, 2 arrived from the Louisville, KY area and 2 others from the Ashland, KY area. My sincere gratitude to each and every member from surrounding states who chose to stand in Honor of Josh and his family. Of those in attendance, Joe from the Hurricane area and John and Ann from near Dayton, OH were attending their first mission. During the course of our Visitation Vigil, we had the opportunity to see, first hand, the pain and suffering this family is enduring at this moment. The only thing I shall NEVER forget for as long as I'm a PGR member is seeing Jeff, Josh's Father, approach 'Moth' and ask if he could relieve him in our flag line. Words cannot describe my thoughts and feelings as he stood there, proudly holding Old Glory. Our rules dictate that I not photograph the family so I will have to live with that image being indelibly etched in my mind forever. Many, many thanks are due to every member who proudly stood the flag line this night over a 4 hour period.
At the conclusion of our Vigil, the majority of us rhendezvoused at the nearby Applebee's for dinner and a chance to reflect on what each of us had witnessed that evening before retiring for the evening.
Meeting again Wednesday morning, we welcomed Tom from Ashland, KY and Darrell from Chillecothe, OH who chose to join travel to stand for Josh. During our pre-mission briefing, Bob learned his Father-in-Law had taken ill and was being transferred to a local hospital. At our insistance, and much resistance from him, we convinced him to take care of family first. Thank God, everything turned out well for him. We arrived at the funeral home prior to family and proudly stood for them as they arrived, some by limo and some in their POV. The site of his Father saluting US as he entered the Funeral Home, clearly upset, was heart wrenching. We were invited by the Funeral Director to participate in Josh's memorial service and those that chose to, did so. At the conclusion of the service, we mustered to pay our Respects as Josh was being moved to the hearse for his final journey, after which we took our place at the head of the procession, riding the Missing Man formation for the 15 mile trip to Evergreen Cemetery.
Upon arrival, we formed a flag tunnel for the Honor Guard who proudly carried Josh to the bier and for his family and friends to pass through. This cemetery is extremely small, thus we were closer to the services than I have ever been, being able to clearly see and hear everything that went on. The site of Sgt Grant, and I hope I have his name right, trying to comfort Jeff as he presented him a flag was more than the Sergeant and I both could handle. I found myself trying to console him as he exited the service area.
There are not enough "Thank You's" to go around for this mission but I'll do the best I can.
First and foremost, a special Thank You has to be given to Josh's family for affording us to Honor to stand for him. We can truly never understand your pain and suffering but it is my sincere, heartfelt hope that God will grant each and every one the healing and comfort you deserve at this moment in your lives. Thank you to Capt Mullins, SGM Porterfield and your entire team for working with us so closely. May God watch over each of you during your upcoming deployment. To Mike, Bob and all the staff of Chapman Funeral Home in Hurricane for your thoughtfulness, caring and hospitality toward us on both days of this Mission of Honor. To the Putnam County Sheriff's department for providing escort to the cemetery, ensuring everyone's safe passage over very busy roadways. And finally, Thank you to each and every proud Patriot Guard Rider who took valuable time out of your lives, with some traveling great distances, to humbly honor our American Hero, Spc Josh Wilcoxen.
As a final, closing note, as we were standing our line during the services, we learned that Wednesday was a very special day in both Josh and Emma's life. It was to be their first anniversary. So sad, so very, very sad.
God bless you, Joshua, and your family. May you now find the peace you were seeking as you stand watch among the angels. My heart breaks for your family.
God Speed son.
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"This nation will remain the land of the free only so long as it is the home of the brave." Elmer Davis
Joe Cumblidge
West Virginia State Captain
UOV HOG Chapter
RM1 USCG 1969-78
(304) 455-4036 - Home
(304) 588-1278 - Cell
www.wvpatriotguard.org
In Memory of the crew of HU16E CGNR 2123, lost on SAR mission off Corpus Christi, TX on 21 September 1973:
LCDR Francis W. Miller (CG Aviator #1164)
LTJG Jerald M. Mack (CG Aviator #1567)
AD1 Harold D. Brown, Jr.
AM2 Benjamin R. Gaskins, Jr.
AT2 John F. Harrison
AT2 John P. Pledger
Montani semper liberi (Mountaineers are always free)
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harly69g
Posts: 8579
Mid-West Regional Capt.
KY,IN,OH,MI
Ride Capt.
Owensboro, KY
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| 20 Apr 2007 9:21 AM |
Alert
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Index of \West Virginia\Spc Joshua A Wilcoxen 22 Scott Depot WV April 17 & 18 2007\
Pics Posted. |
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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 |
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