Kontractor 
Posts: 355
Milwaukee RC
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| 10 Sep 2007 4:24 PM |
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Numerous e-mails and phone calls... all asking if I'd heard about Greg Bowman. Honestly, the name didn't ring a bell. I'm just a PGR member of less than a year, from north of da' border. But now that a picture of Greg has been posted, Ya, I know that guy. I've had the honor of attending several missions down in Illinois and I've shook hands with Greg and been thanked for coming. I wish I could put into words the grin that was on his face. I just knew it was all about respect and the mission with him. Some will say he was lucky to have gone out doing something he loved, riding. Some will say he was so blessed with friends and family. I think we've all been blessed by knowing him, and by having him as a member of The Patriot Guard Riders. How ironic that Greg's final act, his passing, will serve to bring the PGR closer together and stronger than ever. I think he would have liked that.
To his friends and family, my prayers are with you in hopes in these difficult days ahead are made just a little bit easier by your faith and the Grace of God. Remember the good times and smile.
Rest assured the the PGR membership of SE WI stands ready to do whatever is requested of us and more. Ask and its yours. We stand ready to answer the call.
Kevin the Kontractor
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Because It's The Right Thing To Do.
Nothing Worthwhile is ever Easy. And Nothing Easy is Ever Worthwhile.
"Hammer the Americans hard enough and you forge the best weapon in the world"
Captain Simeon Ecuyer...in a letter written to Colonel Bouquet during the siege of Fort Pitt, 1783
"American Soldiers in battle don't fight for what some president says on T.V., they don't fight for mom, apple pie, or the American flag... They fight for one another." Lt General Hal Moore
For all his bluster, it is the sad problem of man that he cannot choose his triumph,
He can only choose how he will stand when the call of destiny comes,
Hoping that he’ll have the courage to answer.
What Have I Done this Day to Honor the Names of My Fathers? |
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Steam
Posts: 3167
Whitmire SC
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| 10 Sep 2007 4:26 PM |
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Greg Bowman stood tall. A true patriot has been lost.
Pegs down for Greg tomorrow. |
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Steam
Randy Stevens
Senior Ride Captain
South Carolina
(864)344-6002
Listen for the Rumble |
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letsroll93
Posts: 30
Central IL
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| 10 Sep 2007 4:45 PM |
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| I did not know Greg. But from reading the posts here, I feel I know him some. Any person who gives so freely of themselves and commits so much of their own time and energy for the benfit and care of others, is more than a patriot, or friend, or bother. That person would be a humanitarian. It would seem this hole in the fabric of PGR will not mend any time soon. My condolences to his freinds and family and my regrets that I did not get to meet this man before. But I will meet him in the future. God Bless. |
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If someone were to ask me "Why do you stand here holding that flag for someone you didn't know?" I would say "To show respect for the soldier and regrets for the family, and because we are related." And if they ask "Oh? How are you related?" I would answer " You see, we are from the same country!'
"If there must be trouble, let be in my time, so that my child may have peace." Thomas Paine |
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HogJr
Posts: 41
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| 10 Sep 2007 5:03 PM |
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| Sunday, Sept. 9th- 8:56am, Greg Bowman ended his email with “I am headed out to ride all day. I do not know where I am going but I will not be back to even monitor email until later this evening. This beautiful day is simply too good to waste.”
Take comfort, dear friends, in knowing that it was indeed a beautiful day, and Greg did not waste it. He rolled on through the twisties and accelerated down the straights undoubtedly with that all too familiar smile on his face. I had the pleasure of knowing Greg for only a short time compared to most. But with a great big bear hug and a firm handshake, he made me feel like we knew each other forever. His passion, friendship, and unwavering dedication to our mission will be missed by all of us that knew him.
Together we will follow his lead, and live each day of the rest of our lives not necessarily knowing where we are going, but enjoying it anyway. Because “This Beautiful day is simply too good to waste.”
JrHog
To Mike and the rest of the Bowman Family;
Wherever, whenever, whatever. Ask one of us for help, but don't be surprised when all of us show up. |
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elisejk
Posts: 1682
Fuquay Varina, NC
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| 10 Sep 2007 5:09 PM |
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When I heard the news
this morning I kept remembering this e-mail exchange I had with Greg. I though
it was so unique and awesome that I saved it. I felt it should be shared.
I feel like I’ve lost
someone in my family, and that is because I have. I’m so sadden by this news.
-----Original Message-----
From: Greg Bowman
Sent: Wednesday, April 04, 2007 7:04 PM
To: Elise Kinstler
Subject: Illinois
Information
Elise,
I am Mike Bowman's "big brother". I'll not bore you with any major details but
I have worked side by side with Mike since we joined the PGR. I am now his Senior Ride Captain in northern Illinois. As such I may be interacting with you to post
mission information. I just thought I
should introduce myself. That's
all. Just wanted to say Hey.
Greg Bowman
Princeton,
IL
-----Original Message-----
From: Elise Kinstler [mailto:Elisejk@patriotguard.org]
Sent: Wednesday, April 04, 2007 7:27 PM
To: Greg Bowman
Subject: RE: Illinois
Information
Hello Greg, and if I remember correctly, is your Dad a
member also?
Thanks for the hello!
I send out the State Wide e-mails. Mods@patriotguard.org
post the mission information.
I like to wait until the info is posted so I can include the
link to the thread in the State Wide.
-----Original Message-----
From: Greg Bowman
Sent: Wednesday, April 04, 2007 8:24 PM
To: Elise Kinstler
Subject: RE: Illinois
Information
Yes indeed Dad is a member.
We have a bit of a family thing going with the PGR as Mike lost a son to
the after effects of serving in Iraq. We all receive therapy from our ongoing
involvement with the missions. Here is
our pedigree just for grins and giggles:
Mike, his wife Kim and daughter Michelle are all IL PGR
I and my wife Joann and our sons Mike and Joe are IL PGR
Wilbur and Evelyn Bowman, Dad and Mom are IL PGR
Jeff Bowman, another brother, is IN PGR
Rod Bowman, another brother, and his wife Cathy are KY PGR
We had 11 Bowman’s in attendance at a mission last summer in
southern Indiana for the return of remains
from Vietnam.
We are all dedicated to the mission and thrilled to have
Mike and me in leadership positions.
Greg
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National Support Staff
“Accept the challenges so that you may feel the exhilaration of victory.”
General George S. Patton
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Uffda
Posts: 13696
Wonder Lake, IL
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| 10 Sep 2007 5:15 PM |
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Our sincere condolences to the family and friends of Greg Bowman. May God help you though this difficult time and sorrow. Our thoughts and prayers, along with those of so many others, are with you. He will not be forgotten.
Rest Safely and Securely in God's Loving Arms, Greg.
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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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J R
Posts: 136
Montgomery, Al
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| 10 Sep 2007 5:15 PM |
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| Very sad to hear this. We just went through it in Alabama and know your pain. Deepest regrets and condolences to Greg's family and friends. |
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deruss
Posts: 113
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| 10 Sep 2007 5:19 PM |
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I have taken my grandson on nine missions
I have taken my grandson
on 9 missions. On the 5th one in Wheaton, Greg came over
to little Kevin and gave him a Mission Accomplished pin. Kevin has worn it on all his subsequent
missions. I wrote about it here.
I last saw my friend Greg
on Sunday of the Stockton
mission – a beautiful place 100 miles from his home where he would die exactly
three week later. I met his parents, there
for their first mission. I wrote about
it here.
R.I.P., SRC. –Don Russ
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BIMud
Posts: 27
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| 10 Sep 2007 5:44 PM |
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We have truly lost a good friend and patriot. There are no words to truly express our shock at this news. We saw Greg in Stockton and again in Burbank two weeks ago. Once you met him you knew you had a friend forever. He will be missed by so many of his PGR members but he will never be forgotten. To his family and friends our deepest sympathy.
Standing by
Bill and Pat Gibson
Aledo, Il. |
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vtxri
Posts: 943
Rhode Island
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| 10 Sep 2007 5:47 PM |
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My thoughts and prayers are with the Bowman family and the PGR family of Illinois.
A PGR brother I never had a chance to meet or shake a hand, a guy who made a difference and impacted many not only in his state but across the country.
I am very sad for the loss of Greg and our hearts are with you all.
Greg's dedication to the PGR will always remain in our hearts.
Ed King
Rhode Island State Captain
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ron1ok
Posts: 715
Triadelphia WV
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| 10 Sep 2007 5:47 PM |
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| It's always sad to read one of these. You soon find out after joining the PGR, that everyone's heart is good and pure. That's why we are all so close, and that's why it hurts us all when we lose "one of our own". Greg, our brother, God bless you. 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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Yohan
Posts: 49
SW WI, near New Diggings
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| 10 Sep 2007 5:52 PM |
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I meet Greg a couple of times last summer on PGR missions. He was one hell of a guy! His passing is a great loss to his family, the state of IL, and the PGR. I as well as many others will miss him greatly. He has touched the lives of so many! Let peace and comfort be with his family and let them know the PGR will do anything they can to help in this time of mourning.
Rest in Peace Greg and ride free!
John Scanlan
PGR WI
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tiggerflying
Posts: 116
Bridgeview,IL
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| 10 Sep 2007 6:04 PM |
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I am stunned and so very sorry for your/our loss. Please extend my prayers to all of the family. Greg just emailed me last week as I got the two brothers confused in my email. I shed tears for a wonderful person. I know you are in a Special Place.
tiggerflying in the big red cage
PGR 4-2006
Blue Star Mother
Female Veteran from the 60's |
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SASTEEL
Posts: 12
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| 10 Sep 2007 6:05 PM |
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| Too often, little stuff gets in the way of the real issues which bring life to the point of importance. This life was important. This life meant something to a lot of people. This life was well lived and loved life itself.
No matter what....this is a sad day for me, Illinois and this country.
I am so sorry. |
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Merlene
Posts: 74
IL PGR Chaplain & Ride Captain Princeton, IL
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| 10 Sep 2007 6:09 PM |
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I had the privilege of meeting both Mike and Greg in person finally at the funeral in Stockton. Even through the rain and the sorrow we all share one thing. Respect for each other and a deep sense of honor. One thing I have found in being part of the PGR, hugs are always welcome and freely given. Here's one for Greg.
Mom and Dad Bowman, you have wonderful sons and I'm sure you are very proud of them. To all of Greg's family, Mom and Dad, Mike, Greg's wife and children, and all his extended family, my prayers for comfort in this time of sorrow are going out for you. May this draw you closer to the Heavenly Father as he opens His arms to surround you and hold you up during this time.
To the PGR family, we will all miss Greg. Please keep his family in your prayers for peace during this time.
If there is anything we can do for the family, we are here in Princeton ready and willing to help. My cell number is 815-719-2202. John's cell number is 309-312-0556. Just call and we will do whatever we can.
If there are Guard Riders or family members that need somewhere to stay during this time, we would be honored to help out and open our home for you. It's not the Ritz but it does us just fine. Please call if we can be of assistance.
John and Merlene Freet
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I am the wife of a Marine veteran. I stand by him with honor and respect.
Humbled to serve My Lord and Saviour Jesus Christ by doing whatever I can to show others the love of God by spreading the Gospel!!
Jesus said, "I am the way, the truth, and the life, no one comes to the Father, but by me." John 14:6 It's not about "religion", it's about a personal relationship with Jesus Christ as your Savior. Do you know Jesus personally??
He suffered and died for all of our sins and is offering the gift of eternal life. Please accept Him and you will receive his gift.
True Love is sacrificial giving...... not just good intentions!!
Photo memories from missions we have done -- www.pgrmemoriesbymerlene.shutterfly.com -- I pray they will bring honor and comfort to those who need it. |
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Dimples5166
Posts: 842
Cheshire, CT
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| 10 Sep 2007 6:12 PM |
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| My condolences to the family and friends of Greg. I did not know him personelly but only through the PGR. Greg you will be sorely missed. If this becoms a mission I will be there in spirit, if I lived closer I would be there in person. |
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Always remember tomorrow is a new day with no mistakes in it.
"In GOD We Trust" |
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SASTEEL
Posts: 12
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| 10 Sep 2007 6:16 PM |
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| Very very sorry. |
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mpleasant
Posts: 642
Lake County, IL
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| 10 Sep 2007 6:41 PM |
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I met Greg Bowman a few weeks ago at the mission in Stockton, and again a couple of weeks ago at the mission in Burbank. Although I did not have the privilege of getting to know Greg beyond those two meetings, his dedication and commitment to the mission of the Patriot Guard Riders was obvious. To those of you who did know Greg personally, thank you for sharing your thoughts and feelings so that all of us can know him just a little bit better. For some reason that we don't know or understand right now, God has called Greg to a special mission. It is my hope and prayer that Greg's family, and everyone experiencing this loss of a friend, finds peace and comfort in believing that.
Standing by in Lake County, IL. |
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jalger
Posts: 721
Crystal Lake, IL.
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| 10 Sep 2007 6:44 PM |
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My condolences to the Bowman family. It’s an unfathomable loss.
I’ll always remember the first time I met Greg. It was last year in the rain at the BP Gas Station in Princeton during an escort from O’Hare to Galesburg. He ran up and asked if I was going all the way to Galesburg, in which I assured him I was. “Well in that case we have a place up front.”
I remember Greg and I and some others holding an American flag over a window of a Galesburg church during the service so no one inside would see the UGs out the window.
Our arms ached, but we held the flag up with our backs to the bad guys for as long as it took.
I remember Gregg at the Homuth benefit in Huntley. And I remember Gregg running down to Bloomington on a cold Sunday to help better communication in the state.—He was always there when the PGR needed him for something.
I remember christening his new bike at Lockhart's place, and the pride Gregg always had in bringing a family member to a mission, usually one of the boys, but occasionally Mom and Dad.
As has been mentioned I’ll always remember the sandwiches Mom and Dad Bowman made in Galesburg.
I’ll remember Greg for his knowledge of the back roads, some say it was his GPS but I think he just flat knew the roads..
But most importantly I’ll remember Gregg for his love of family and his love for the Patriot Guard.
I’ll remember Gregg as someone who always wanted the best for both.
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Big Joe
Crystal Lake, IL.
Ride Captain Warrior's Watch
www.warriorswatch.org
All gave some.
Some gave all.
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standbytostandby
Posts: 0
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| 10 Sep 2007 7:46 PM |
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Rest in peace, brother.
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bkrchkinct
Posts: 58
Illinois
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| 10 Sep 2007 7:54 PM |
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This has been such a shock. Greg was truly one of the great ones. I had the honor to know him both professionally and as a rider. My deepeest condolences to Greg's family. A terrible loss. We will all miss him.
Judy Goldstein
Mokena
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ranger rick
Posts: 402
Des Plaines, Illinois.
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| 10 Sep 2007 8:04 PM |
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| Our Hearts and Prayers go out to The Bowman Family. I never meet Gregg, for that I am sorry. From all that I read here today I wished I had................................... Mike you helped me out getting my son Tim started in the Tenn. PGR last May. If theres anything I can do for you here in Chicago, Well you know, I'm here... May God be with you in your time of grief..................... Rick & Bonnie |
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Richard J. Gandy PGR # 66935
Support Our Troops ~~~Remember Our Veterans.
In Memory of Dad,WWII /Korea/Purple Heart. USMC. 2/1927-----------10/2005 |
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kasia
Posts: 5
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| 10 Sep 2007 8:46 PM |
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| I wish to express my condolences to all family, friends, and acquaintances of Greg. It is always very difficult and trying one a loved one passes on. My heart and prayers go out to the family. |
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690MedCo
Posts: 4650
Huntington Beach, CA
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| 10 Sep 2007 9:00 PM |
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Thank you Mr Bowman for your PGR Service! Our thoughts & prayers are with you. Rest in peace.
Glen & Linda |
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Glen Owsley
SP4 U.S. Army 1976-1979
Medical Specialist
690th Medical Co (amb)
34th Medical Btn
Ft Benning, GA
U.S. Army Reserve (IRR)1979-1982
Patriot Guard Rider
Leave No Veteran Behind!
Blessed are the peacemakers, for they shall be called the children of God. Matthew 5:9
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temsr
Posts: 455
Youngstown,Ohio
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| 10 Sep 2007 9:07 PM |
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| My prayers and condolences to the family and friends Of PGR Brother Greg Bowman. May he rest in Peace . |
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Tom Moody Sr.
U.S. Army 8th ID Airborne 66/68
DAV Life Member
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