Mission Complete - Pfc. Michael J. Slater, 19, Scott Depot, WV, 28, 29 Apr 07 > Patriot Guard Forums - Americans Doing the Right Thing

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Subject: Mission Complete - Pfc. Michael J. Slater, 19, Scott Depot, WV, 28, 29 Apr 07

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ultraclassic User is Offline

Posts: 2264
Proctor, WV

26 Apr 2007 7:24 AM	Alert
*************ADDITIONAL LODGING INFORMATION***************** Two additional motels, in Cross Lanes, have graciously offered discounted room rates to PGR members attending this Mission of Honor. 1.) Motel 6, 330 Goff Mountain Road, Cross Lanes, is offering rooms at $41.39 plus tax for Saturday night. Call (304) 776-5911 for reservations, specifying you're with the Patriot Guard Riders. For directions, go to: http://www.mapquest.com/maps/map.adp?latlongtype=internal&addtohistory=&latitude=90XpzUPLKJtqyRlIEE15Ug%3d%3d&longitude=vo0MUSdugUEo2hujucAqEw%3d%3d&name=Motel%206&country=US&address=330%20Goff%20Mountain%20Rd&city=Cross%20Lanes&state=WV&zipcode=25313&phone=304%2d776%2d5911&spurl=0&&q=motels&qc=Hotels%20%26%20Motels. 2.) EconoLodge, 4115 1st Ave., Nitro, WV, located 2 miles from Cross Lanes, is offering rooms with 2 dbl beds for $48.99 or with 2 queen beds for $52.99 per night, plus tax. Currently, they have 22 rooms remaining. For reservations, call (304) 755-8341 and, again, specify you're with the Patriot Guard Riders. As a sidenote, the manager states all her family is motorcycle enthusiasts and she currently has a cousin on his second tour in the Sandbox, doing covert operations. Unfortunately, she states his family has not heard from him "in quite some time, now". For directions, go to: http://www.mapquest.com/maps/map.adp?latlongtype=internal&addtohistory=&latitude=uF%2bFP7agbB4pQ2UkiFtuTA%3d%3d&longitude=yYj5v9mahKKA%2fmjDcjdCkw%3d%3d&name=Econo%20Lodge&country=US&address=4115%201st%20Ave&city=Nitro&state=WV&zipcode=25143&phone=304%2d755%2d8341&spurl=0&&q=motels&qc=Hotels%20%26%20Motels. Continue watching this thread for staging times and locations. These should be forthcoming later today. Thank you for your continued diligence and support of Michael and his family. Respects, Joe

"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)

TMR

Posts: 2995
Willow Springs IL

26 Apr 2007 7:53 AM	Alert
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, Pfc. Slater, for being willing to do just that. TMR

ultraclassic User is Offline

Posts: 2264
Proctor, WV

26 Apr 2007 8:10 AM	Alert
As an afterthought, I have a room reserved at the EconoLodge w/2 queen beds. If anyone would like to share the room costs, let me know. Video surveillance and local police patrol is on the premises. Continental breakfast is available from 0600-1000. Check-in is after 1400, check-out by 1100. Respects, Joe

"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)

fyrefighter814 User is Offline

Posts: 94
Fairmont, WV

26 Apr 2007 8:56 AM	Alert
UPDATE ON ITiNERARY for PFC Michael Slater: I will be meeting with the funeral home director around 4:00 on Saturday to get a visual on the layout of the area and the cemetary site. If there are any changes to the information following, I will advise at the staging area on Sunday. Funeral visitation hours are from 6:00 to 8:00 PM on Saturday April 28th. We will be present the PGR plaque to the family at that time, on the advice of SGM Becher. Other than that short time inside, we will be providing honor guard outside of the funeral home from 6:00 to 8:00. The funeral is scheduled for 2:30 PM on Sunday April, 29th. The funeral home is at the same location as the cemetary. However, there WILL be a short procession, as the actual gravesite is too far to walk. The staging area will be at a Sam's Club parking lot, which is just off of Exit 48 on I-64. The Sam's Club is closed so we will have plenty of room, and should have no problems. I am currently in contact with a Lt. from the Kanawha County Sheriffs Dept. to make sure we follow all local regs, and possibly get an escort from Sams to the funeral home. We will stage at 11:00 AM, with kickstands up at 12:15 to ride to the funeral home. I will know more about parking at the funeral home on Saturday, but according to the director, we will probably ride just past the chapel, and angle park, headed toward the gravesite. It is unknown yet whether we will lead or follow the procession. I will also meet anyone who wants to attend the visitation on Saturday, at the same Sam's Club. We will leave the Sam's Club at 5:30. If anyone misses the departure time, follow Rt. 622 and CROSS OVER I-64, then the directions are the same as previously posted. LASTLY...I made ONE mistake in the previous post with directions. I got my East and West backwards. If you are headed EAST on I-68, (from KY and Huntington), take EXIT 47A. When getting off of the exit, turn RIGHT to get to the Sam's Club. From Charleston, take EXIT 47 and turn LEFT to get to the Sam's Club. This is all of the information that I have available now. I will post further as I get more. If you need to, feel free to call me at 304-692-6900 for more info or questions. Thanks. Barry Bledsoe RC Fairmont, WV

Barry Bledsoe Ride Captain Fairmont, WV 304-692-6900

fyrefighter814 User is Offline

Posts: 94
Fairmont, WV

26 Apr 2007 9:17 AM	Alert
Two more items RE: Itinerary for PFC Slater: First, we need to change the time of the staging prior to the visition on Saturday night. We should meet at 4:45 for a BRIEF information session. We will leave the Sam's Club Parking lot at 5:00 PM. Secondly, I should reiterate that there WILL be a procession to the gravesite. In my first post, the information I had was that there would not be a procession. That has changed. I just wanted to stress this so everyone could make an informed decision on whether or not to ride two wheels or four. WEATHER FORECAST FOR SATURDAY AND SUNDAY: (Copied from the Weather.com website) Sat Apr 28 Few Showers 68°/49° 30% 68°F Sun Apr 29 Partly Cloudy 71°/49° 10% 71°F Thank you for your support. Barry Bledsoe RC Fairmont, WV 304-692-6900

Barry Bledsoe Ride Captain Fairmont, WV 304-692-6900

fyrefighter814 User is Offline

Posts: 94
Fairmont, WV

26 Apr 2007 10:00 AM	Alert
I will be leaving Fairmont, WV at around 11:00 AM on Saturday to ride to Cross Lanes. If anyone is coming from the north or east and would like to meet up here or anywhere south of here on I-79, let me know. It is always better to ride with someone than to ride alone. Barry Bledsoe, RC Fairmont, WV 304-692-6900

Barry Bledsoe Ride Captain Fairmont, WV 304-692-6900

AlleyKat

Posts: 73
Florence AL

26 Apr 2007 11:59 AM	Alert
We extend heartfelt sympathy to the family and friends of Pfc Michael J. Slater. There is no way to lessen the sorrow of losing someone so precious to you…but please remember, even those who do not know you care very much and are praying for you. This brave young solder paid the ultimate sacrifice and will always be a TRUE AMERICAN HERO. This void will never be filled but may your memories of him be a source of comfort to you. We will NOT forget his courage and willingness to serve our country and defend our freedom. And so we honor him because of his choice to stand for what he believed in. May your faith in God and the power of His love carry you through this difficult time. Truly this was the greatest day of his life, for today he met the Lord. May God Bless You.

Render therefore to all their dues: tribute to whom tribute is due; custom to whom custom; fear to whom fear; honor to whom honor. Romans 13:7

mattsmom

Posts: 1503
North Beach, Maryland

26 Apr 2007 7:56 PM	Alert
Pfc Slater, as a nation we mourn your loss; we so deeply appreciate your service and sacrifice, and we will remember you always as a true American hero. To Michael's family, I offer my prayers and support. I understand a little of your grief-I lost my son under very similar circumstances in Iraq last year. I pray wonderful memories of your dear young warrior help eventually to ease the pain you endure today. Michael 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

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

Boone Brother User is Offline

Posts: 1

27 Apr 2007 1:40 PM	Alert
Please be advised that the route is I-64 and not I-68. Thanks;

fyrefighter814 User is Offline

Posts: 94
Fairmont, WV

27 Apr 2007 3:02 PM	Alert
Boone Brother... Thanks for catching that mistake. I live near I-68 and didn't even realize that I had done that. I hope to see a good turnout this weekend to honor Pvt. Slater. Ride safe everyone! Barry Bledsoe RC Fairmont, WV 304-692-6900

Barry Bledsoe Ride Captain Fairmont, WV 304-692-6900

fyrefighter814 User is Offline

Posts: 94
Fairmont, WV

28 Apr 2007 8:43 PM	Alert
Update on current mission for PFC Slater: Ten PGR members arrived in Cross Lanes this afternoon to attend the visitation services for PFC Michael Slater. Some of these were new members, and one dedicated gentleman drove all the way from Atlanta Georgia to pay his respects and show honor to PFC Slater. We went to the chapel, arriving at approximately 5:20 PM. We met with SGM Becher, and some of the staff of the funeral home. At 5:45, Jerry, Joe and myself went into the chapel, and met the mother of PFC Slater. We presented her with the PGR plaque, a copy of the mission thread, and a patch that was sent with Jerry, from a Vietnam veteran in Georgia, who wanted to show his respect and admiration for the fallen soldier. The brief meeting brought tears to her eyes, as we thanked her for her sons dedication, and sacrifice, as well as HER sacrifice. As we left, we stopped by the flag draped casket, as Joe saluted. A slide show of Michaels life played in the background, and there were pictures on various displays, as well as many different pieces of baseball items. Apparently Michael and his family are avid baseball and softball fans. As we stood outside, I met Michaels brother, who had just gotten a tattoo on his upper arm, which had his brothers name, over a set of crossed flags. One flag was the American flag, and the other a flag of the 82nd Airborne. Under that, was Michaels birthdate, and the date of his final day on this earth. Tomorrow, at 11:00 we will again meet at the Sams Club parking lot, departing there at 12:15 PM to be escorted to the chapel by the Kanawha County Sheriff. It is believed that Governor Manchin may attend the services. With the good weather forecast for Sunday, I hope to see many of you there to help us show our support and gratitude to the family of Michael Slater. On Monday, I will post a final note about the services, as well as pictures. God Bless Barry Bledsoe RC Fairmont, WV

Barry Bledsoe Ride Captain Fairmont, WV 304-692-6900

trukr

Posts: 0

28 Apr 2007 9:32 PM	Alert
Pfc Michael J Slater, Thank you for your willingness to defend the United States of America and all that we hold sacred. Though tears can never bring you back, we hope that our tears express our gratitude for the sacrifice that you made and our sorrow at your passing. You are truly a hero and your sacrifice will never be forgotten. Your mission on earth is complete. Stand down brave warrior and take your rightful place in Heaven with all the heroes who have passed before. To the family and friends of Pfc Slater, we offer our deepest sympathy and condolences. May God smile down upon you in this time of deep sorrow and grant you the strength and conviction to carry on. May you find joy in fond memories and peace in knowing that your loss was not in vain. A grateful nation stands with you. SOLDIER DOWN...KICKSTANDS UP!!! Ron & Lea Eppich Parents of Sgt Robert Scott Eppich 1981-2006

ultraclassic User is Offline

Posts: 2264
Proctor, WV

29 Apr 2007 7:05 PM	Alert
Home, safe and sound, around 2000. Excellent turn-out today folks; my sincere "Thank You" to all who travelled in from Kentucky, to Jerry for making the long trip up from Atlanta, to our new members who were attending their first Mission of Honor and to ALL who took time from their personal lives to stand in Honor of our Fallen Hero. A special "Thank You" to all for looking out for my personal well-being these past two days. I do apologize for letting things get a little out of hand today as that detracted from our purpose for being there. Excellent job Barry. Thank you for stepping up. Barry will file his ride report a bit later. Respects to All, Joe

"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)

fyrefighter814 User is Offline

Posts: 94
Fairmont, WV

30 Apr 2007 12:56 PM	Alert
FINAL MISSION REPORT: God gave us beautiful weather on Sunday, to help brighten spirits, on a a day filled with tears, falling like raindrops from many faces. We started gathering at the Sam's Club parking lot at 11:00 AM. Our group consisted of 20 people, with 14 bikes and 3 automobiles. Out of the 20, we had 4 or 5 who were on their first mission, along with some PGR brothers from KY and one from Atlanta, GA. The service and efforts of all who showed up were greatly appreciated. Safety was granted to all who traveled, as we had no serious incidents. One member had a very close call on the way down on Sunday, nearly laying his bike down because of some wreckless drivers. Although he suffered a slight foot injury and his bike suffered a slight fender injury, he was very lucky compared to the potential outcome. Otherwise we are thankful for the safety on the road. We received a police escort from the Kanawha County Sheriff from Sams to the chapel. A flag line was formed near the doors of the chapel, and at the approach to the building as well. After the services, we rode a very short distance to again create a line of honor with flags for family and friends to pass through enroute to the gravesite. We then stood by overlooking the gravesite services. There were several hundred friends and family in attendance at the funeral. In addition, there were many military men and women, both active and retired at the service. We were honored as several of them shook each of our hands and thanked us for what we do. Little do they know that WE are MUCH more grateful to THEM for THEIR sacrifice and service, than they could ever be to us. It is why we do what we do. Other than a bit if a medical with one of our members that had many of us concerned, we had a good weekend, and I believe a successful mission, as we were able to ensure the family and friends of PVC Slater, that we appreciate his and their sacrifice, and that people across the country were praying for them and thinking of them in their time of grief. Thank you again. to all who participated, and to those who would have attended, but were prevented from making the trip for various reasons. I will have mission pictures posted no later than tomorrow. Mission Accomplished. Rest in peace PFC Michael Slater. Barry Bledsoe, RC Fairmont, WV 304-692-6900

Barry Bledsoe Ride Captain Fairmont, WV 304-692-6900

harly69g

Posts: 8563
Mid-West Regional Capt.
KY,IN,OH,MI
Ride Capt.
Owensboro, KY

30 Apr 2007 5:47 PM	Alert
Index of \West Virginia\Pfc Michael J Slater 19 Scott Depot WV 28 29 Apr 07\ Pics posted in the photo gallery.

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

ultraclassic User is Offline

Posts: 2264
Proctor, WV

30 Apr 2007 8:55 PM	Alert
As a small addition to Barry's mission report, during the plaque presentation on Saturday, at Michael's Mother's request, all members stading the flag line were presented a blue armband with "Fallen Hero, Michael J. Slater" etched on it. Additional bands were given to those in attendance on Sunday also. That is something I will treasure and wear as long as holds out. More mission photos will be submitted & posted shortly. Once again, my sincere thanks to all who gave of their time to stand in silent tribute to another American Hero, Pfc Michael J. Slater. May you rest in eternal peace Michael. God Speed. Respects, Joe

"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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Forums > Mission Information > PGR - Archives > Mission Complete - Pfc. Michael J. Slater, 19, Scott Depot, WV, 28, 29 Apr 07

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