******MISSION COMPLETE******
On a cool, rainy Tuesday morning, 9 PGR members gathered at Altmeyer's Funeral Home in Moundsville, WV to pay our Honor and Respect to Sgt Richard "Ricky" Williams.
As the rains subsided, giving way to streaks of sunshine, we maintained our flag line at the entrance as scores of mourners made their way inside for his final services.
Prior to commencement of services, I presented our plaque to Ricky's Mother, Hollie, and PA RC Ralph Delorme also presented her with a honor certificate.
We re-established our line as Ricky was moved to the hearse in preparation for his final journey to Riverview Cemetery.
Led by units of the Marshall County Sheriff's Department and Moundsville Police Department, we wound our way through the city streets and slowly proceeded to the cemetery for his interment, again setting our flag line at graveside. There we remained until conclusion of services and the departure of the family.
My sincere thank you to CAO Sgt Koch, Pat Phillips and Steve Masure of Altmeyer's Funeral Home for all of their assistance and professionalism in working with us; to Marshall County Sheriff John Gruzinskas and his deputies as well as the Moundsville PD for their excellence in ensuring everyone's safety during the procession to the cemetery and to each and every PGR member who came out in less than perfect weather conditions to show Ricky and his family that he will never be forgotten. A special thank you goes to PA RC Ralph Delorme and OH RC Tom Moody who both traveled considerable distances in terrible conditions to assist us in bringing this mission to a successful conclusion.
Last, but certainly not least, my thank you is given to the family of Sgt Ricky Williams for inviting the Patriot Guard Riders to attend these most solemn services. It is my hope and prayer that our presence, in some small way, demonstrated that Ricky's service to our country shall never be forgotten.
May you rest in eternal peace Ricky. Go with God.
Respects,
Joe
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