4/29/08
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To all of the Patriot Guard Riders who participated in my father's memorial service, on behalf of my mother, sisters, and other family members, I want to express my extreme gratitude to all of you. You are a wonderful group of individuals, and we appreciate you taking time out of your schedules to pay your respects to my father. In my father's younger years, he was an avid motorcyclist, so it was most appropriate and appreciated to have all of you there. I know he was watching from above, and smiling on all of you.
Thank you again, and God bless you all!
Theresa Wittenberg-Shugart
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4/29/08
My family can not begin to express our thanks for everyone in the PGR. The memorial service that was given for my dad was what makes me proud to be an American.
MY dad went on many escorts with the PGR and I know he was with us on his final ride with you. My family never got to meet many of you before that day but every single one of you hold a very special place in mine and my families hearts.
GOD BLESS YOU ALL
Ralph Clay
4/29/08
I was in the procession and everybody in my car had a wet face coming out of the stadium. We were moved to such an extent, words could not describe our emotions in awe watching your riders line the street out of the city. A lot of us at the burial noticed how long everyone stood with flags with no breaks or relief. I'm glad Kieth offered his sons flag to your captain. This the second funeral of a fallen that I have watched your organization help these families. Your organization brings a whole new meaning to the words of class and respect. I along with the rest of the tri-state area will always remember your valued contribution to this life experience.
Most Respectfully,
Rob Greenebaum
Ocean City MD
4/28/08
My name is Marty Miller, I'm the brother of Spc. Seth Miller, the soldier who your organization recently escorted to Danville national cemetery in Illinois. I wanted to make sure that everyone involved in the patriot guard is reminded of how valuable their service is. The agony and grief my family expected to be overwhelmed by at Seth's funeral was countered by an empowering sense of honor and pride that your riders provided. my brother Jeremy and I need to make sure all of you know what it meant to have you at the funeral. The sight of so many honorable men who voluntarily took the time to escort my brother to his resting place was comforting to the heart. I also thought you should know that we were going through my brother's wallet and we found a business card of yours. so apparently he was aware of your service. May God bless all of you. I thank you with all my heart.
Marty Miller
4/28/08
Patriot Guard,
I want to tell you again how much my family appreciated all of the Patriot Guard Riders! Your presence at my cousin’s funeral was very touching. Dean died for his country doing something he believed in. He was VERY proud to be a Marine. The thoughtfulness, kind words and actions that your group showed, will never be forgotten!
God Bless All of You!
Jackie Duescher
Kewaunee, Wisconsin
4/28/08
Just sending my deepest thanks and appreciation for all that you do. Vandergrift was from my battalion and I too am on a Military Transition Team. Your efforts are deeply appreciated by all his peers and friends. Semper Fi,
1stLt McCarthy
4/28/08
It has taken till today and my involvement with the PGR to realize and find posts made for our son Jason Koutroubas,we wish to thank you for your post our family continues to cope,we move forward to help others at their time of sorrow.
Thank You Dave Carol Mike Koutroubas
4/27/08
THANK YOU FOR COMING TO CORAOPOLIS, PA 15108 IN SUPPORT OF MATTHEW BOWE'S FAMILY AND HONORING A FALLEN HERO.
AMANDA
4/27/08
Dave & Ralph,
I just wanted to thank you and the other PGR for the welcome home,last Friday. I was with the 3/116th out of Leesburg. It was great to see you guys there. Regards
Cory Zemany
4/27/08
Want to thank you for the beautiful Plaque, also for all the support you give.
You all attending Charlie's funeral was great and then having another meeting
was great. Keep up the good work And God Bless.
Maxine Wright
4/26/08
My thanks and eternal gratitude to the members of your organization. My brother served his country to the best of his ability. God speed to all fallen heroes and may perpetual light fall upon them. Your organization makes me proud to be an American.
Keep up the work of honoring our fallen veterans.
B P “Rick” Salmon
Brother of Lawrence R. Salmon interred at Santa Fe National Cemetery
4/25/2008
4/26/08
I just want to thank each and everyone of you for your condolences and for riding with Brandon.
He loved being in the military,he always said it was the place he was suited for.
Just so many of you can know--Brandon always said we were doing great things in Iraq,it just didn't get reported that way.
He was not afraid to go to Afghanistan (sure i spelled it wrong), he stated he knew what he was doing this time,he was a little bit older.
Thank you again, he loved to ride motorcycles, he just couldn't afford to buy his own.
It is a great tribute that you give our men and women of the military. You are proud people yourselves.
Beverly Perry
Proud grandmother of Brandon Keppler
4/25/08
I would like to express gratitude from the family of Jesse Ault for the very impressive guard held during the 2 day services last weekend in Virginia. I am Jesse's mother-in-law and would like to tell you how very touched we all were with your participation. Please continue to keep our family in prayer for the long road ahead.
Sharon Allen
4/24/08
Lcpl Dale G. Peterson was my little brother. My family knew that there was a chance when he deployed that he could be injured or killed but there was nothing that could prepare us for the April 23, 2007 when the Marines showed up at the my parent's homes and my sisters and I got calls from a chaplain.
The Patriot Guard Riders were so supportive. They honored my little brother in a way that only they could. My family was very moved by their commitment to making sure his services went smoothly and that we were protected - should protesters decide to be present - which they were not.
It has been a year - I just wanted to be sure that someone from my family officially thanked all those who participated. You are great men and women and we thank you for your support.
God Bless You,
Marci Sullens on behalf of the Peterson family
4/23/08
I just wanted to take the time to say Thank You to all of those who stood in honor of my dear friend today. There is not a single word that can express how much that ment to all of Kyle's family and friends. God Bless each and every one of you!
God Bless,
Amanda RIninger
4/23/08
This is a Dear John Letter we can all Love from
Jeffery Bounds Mother in Law, enjoy all our Members,
Great Job one and all!
Dear John,
Thank you to you and to all the Patriot Guard Riders as they either rode or held a flag. I did see two little girls holding flags and am so sad my hostess duties were such that I didn't get a chance to speak to them and their fellow flag holders. . Oh, John, Jeff is so encouraged and uplifted through your participation in their "Welcome Home" time. I will never forget the rumble of the motorcycles as they escorted my precious family nor Jeff as he was saluted and saluted the riders in return. There was not a dry eye! I am so glad Merinda was able to get photos of the fire trucks! Please extend my deepest heat felt gratitude to the Patriot Guard riders for their service for Jeff and Amy and to our warriors and their families. I only hope and pray that Tyler and Nathan see his service and our America in a more favorable light now.
Wasn't it the most fabulous day?! I was totally at peace and knew God was in control and could just be their hostess and enjoy the day and try to speak with each person that was there. My heart's cry is to welcome each of our warriors home in like manner. I understand Merinda's son Daniel comes home this month and have offered to help her any way I can in his "Welcome Home".
Also, I would like to have copies of any photos the riders took of this wonderful day, if possible, please. All our guests have mentioned how wonderful it was to experience a PGR welcome home and meeting Jeff and Amy and family. And so many of them experienced dismay and concern as ya'll stood for Jeff in the nasty weather. I just shared what you had told me and was so thrilled to learn that you could stand in honor under the church awning as the Heavens let lose!!
Thank you John and thank you PGR for all you do for all our warriors and I look forward with great anticipation when I see you again. I get goose bumps as I remember the flags with all the signatures. What a blessing and remembrance of the day for them.
God Bless and Keep You as you continue your missions for our returning and fallen warriors and their families.
Sincerely,
Wilma and her family
p.s. What a fabulous video slide show Merinda made! I hope you have seen it.
Wilma Wheeler
4/23/08
As I sat here and went through all of the pictures of this day my eyes are filled with tears, but it is in a good way because you all helped us bring home a hero. There are not enough words to convey how grateful I am for all that you have done. Your dedication and support is something we as families of these warriors can never repay. The countless hours we have sat waiting for the day our children come through the door are the longest darkest hours a parent can spend, but then you all bring a light to that darkness and you will never know just how much you are appreciated because we can never put enough words to it.
You have helped this family so much by being there to bring them home and being there as a beacon in the night for the many more who will return.
God Bless you all for your service and the sacrifices you make everyday making sure our warriors are not forgotten.
Merinda Mullins
We are the Few, The Very Proud,
The Moms of our US Armed Forces and America's Veterans!
We are the Blue Star Mothers of America!
President, Washington State #1, BSMoA, Inc.
4/22/08
Bagger,
It has been almost a month since we buried my father on 03/26/08 and I apologize for this taking so long. I can not thank you enough for all of the support you personally gave me during this difficult time.
The entire Dickson family really appreciate the riders that stopped by "Buddy's" wake on 03/22/08 after they had done the welcome home ride in Bayou Vista.
My mother was awestruck by the service that the PGR did the day of the funeral. You guys thought of everything, like flying both the Army flag and the Air Force flag since he was in the Army Air Corps (Air Force predecessor) during WWII. We have purchased a special display case for my fathers flag. It has a section below the flag for displaying a picture in the center and medals on either side of the picture. My mother wants me to put her challenge coin and PGR pin on one side of his picture and the spent rounds from his 21 gun salute on the other side. She is so proud of her challenge coin. She takes it out of the box and holds it all the time. Words can not express how much that coin and pin means to her.
We had the services professionally videoed and the cinematographer was so impressed by the PGR that he did a special intro to the video featuring the PGR. I would love to share it with you sometime.
Thank You for taking the time out of your schedule to come to the viewing the day before the funeral. My mother was so comforted by that and by being a recipient of all of the PGR attention she now has a better understand if why I ride and stand tall.
My wife Paula and I want you to know how different it is standing on the other side of the flag line. It is so impressive as a family member of the deceased to pull in to the funeral and see all of those flags waving in the breeze and all of those PGR members standing tall and proud. This gives us an entire new perspective on why we do it ourselves.
I feel like part of me was ripped away on the night my father passed and I want everyone to know that all of the support from my PGR brothers and sisters has helped tremendously with the healing process.
On behalf of the entire Dickson family we thank you!
Rick Dickson USAF
Paula Dickson USAF(DAV)
Dean Dickson USAAC (Widow)
Eric Dickson
Matt Dickson
Vicki Dickson Naquin
Nick Naquin
Carley Naquin
04/22/08
Your Kindness Touched My Soul,
I truly cannot thank you and the Patriot Riders enough for all your kindness and respect. Thank you for giving my husband the respect he so deserved. Also, thank you so much for the plaque you had made. I will always cherish it. Your genuine concern and caring for me truly touched me, and I'll never forget that. David would've also been so grateful to you,
Sincerely,
Danielle Newcomb
04/22/08
Patriot Guard Riders
I want to take this opportunity to thank Dave Kern and all the Patriot Riders for taking part in my husband's funeral service April 9, 10, & 11 in Egypt, NY. Jerry was a Viet Nam Vet and loved his country. Jerry suffered from PTSD and enjoyed riding his 05 Screaming Eagle. He also has a 73 Sportster. I will miss riding with him on these beautiful sunny days. Unfortunately, I must sell his bikes to pay expenses.
Thank you again and I look forward to being a member of such a fine group.
Bunny Fuchs
04/22/08
To Carl Swofford and the Lake County Patriot Guard Riders,
On behalf of our family, we would like to express appreciation to the Patriot Guard Riders who attended the committal service of our beloved dad and husband, Harry McCarraher, which took place at Florida National Cemetery on Monday, April 14. It was a touching and memorable way to pay last respects to a man who served his country in the Korean Conflict. We learned of the organization through a family member, David Blatt, and are so grateful that he extended the invitation on our behalf.
Can you tell us how to pass on our appreciation to those who stood in honor as well as how to make a donation to the scholarship fund in memory of Harry McCarraher?
Best regards,
Janet Ruppert (daughter) and family
04/22/08
Dear Patriot Guard Riders.
To many my father was unknown. Cpl Richard E Stull Sr. USMC... A title he was very proud of. His final years were lived as a disabled vet who couldn't get around after having 4 major back surgeries, he had no way of affording the basic things like gas and often food, but that didn't stop him from being happy. Often he would forgo medical treatment at the VA hospital because he knew they were going to give him medicine that he couldn't afford. Despite it all he was first a very proud Marine, and then a very proud Pappy to 4 grand daughters. Nothing would come between his 2 loves of life :) My father died unexpectedly at 55 years old. For years he told me he didn't care how I buried him, but he at least wanted an honorable military funeral. Unfortunately at the time of my father’s death my oldest daughter was scheduled for medical treatment in Cincinnati OH, so we had to postpone his funeral until we came home. In that rush of not knowing what to do I think I called everyone who had anything to do w/ the military to try to full fill my fathers last wish. Even when I was far away from home I was trying to get it all together. My cousin called me when I was the most frantic and said "Its ok, we've got the Patriot Guard Riders" coming to your dad's funeral." I didn't know what that meant until I pulled up to the funeral home and was instantly in awe. There were many men/women baring flags standing guard at the funeral home, which were raised when I got out of my car. I looked around the corner and saw all of their motorcycles. With tears in my eyes I tried to thank everyone, probably not making much sense. Hearing "It’s an Honor Maam" made the tears come more. No tears of sorrow, only of respect and happiness that my father was getting his due respect. My daughters ages 2 and 5 also were also happy; they got to see their Pappy, and see all the motorcycles for their Pap and were very happy to know the motorcycles would be riding w/ him to the cemetery. At the cemetery one of the riders fell off his bike after riding many miles, my brother instantly went to him to make sure he was ok. Just as my father would have done were he able. They say the military takes care of their own, April 14, 2008 I saw how true that was. My father would've loved his tribute. It would've made him humble yet proud. Few of the riders even asked about my oldest daughter, they wanted to make sure she was ok *epileptic kid who's had 3 open heart surgeries and had many seizures at the funeral her site tells it all www.caringbridge.org/pa/arianna * They quickly learned she was the apple of my fathers eye, and understood why the funeral was prolonged. We call her Pappy's little Marine in training :) She said "Mom those nice people are going to take Pappy to Heaven with his sword, he'll love that!"
I've rambled on but didn't want to leave out the most important part of my message to those who rode near and far.
THANK YOU SO VERY MUCH.
Your time and effort is/was greatly appreciated.
Bridget *Stull* Venetta
Proud USMC Daughter
Waynesboro PA
04/21/08
Just a note of thanks to your members that escorted my son’s unit home today. I unfortunately missed it because you and the police did a great job of getting them home before my son said he would be home. For that I am most grateful. Thanks again for your great work and the support that this organization gives to our troops.
Wade Hinkley
Father of,
Sgt. Benjamin Hinkley
HHC 1/175th INF
04/21/08
To THE PATRIOT GUARD
Thank you for your support at my son's funeral (Specialist Jacob J. Fairbanks).
At a time when I did not feel safe, you made me feel safe.
At the time when I was crying, you comforted me
At a time when we needed support, you supported us......
Jake is a hero and you made sure everyone new he is a hero......
I honestly think that you are Angels sent to look after fallen soldiers and their families......
Thanks soooo very much!
Janette Fairbanks
(Jacobs mother)
04/21/08
To whom it may concern:
I am a University of Wisconsin – Stout student and have had the horrific experience of meeting members of the Westboro Baptist Church. As a University we recently lost three students in a house fire and members of the church showed up to protest our campus support for the students lost. It was looking at videos of our protest on YouTube, that I came across your group.
My father was a disabled veteran and is buried at Arlington National Cemetery. I remember the pain I felt that day when we laid him to rest. I cannot imagine those feelings being worsened by a group telling me that they’re happy that he passed away.
When I learned of what your group does, it made me tear up. What you are doing for the families of these veterans is more than you could know. It is a huge sign of respect, gratitude, relief, and support for these families. Knowing that a group like yours is out there and cares enough to rally together in support is amazing.
Even though I have not had the need for your services, I just want to thank you for what you do. It’s great to know that even with people like the Westboro Baptist Church, there are still amazing people out there that are out to change lives for the good. Please keep supporting these military families.
Sincerely,
Brittany Sullivan
Student, University of Wisconsin - Stout
04/21/08
To all the patriot guard riders:
First I'd like to say that I think it's such an awesome thing what you are doing for our fallen soldiers...they truly all are heroes and deserve to be honored.
I would like to give a special thanks to those who attended the services of Spc. Jacob J. Fairbanks on April 17th and 18th. Thank you for honoring my friend with your presence and support. Jake did die in honor and thank you for helping us show that. Words can't describe what it meant to have you there. I will miss my great friend very much and will always wish he could have came home safely but thank you for helping us put him to rest.
Sincerely,
Amanda Roub (St. Paul, MN)
04/21/08
I want to thank all that participated in my son's funeral. The Patriot Riders stood proud and gave my son the honor he deserved. Thank you all so much.
Steven Douglas Elwood
04/21/08
HELLO
I WANT TO SEND MY SINCERE THANK YOU TO ALL WHO MADE THIS POSSIBLE FOR MY
BROTHER KURT.
WE WERE THERE, MY MOM GRETA AND MY BROTHER BOB CAME IN FROM NEW JERSEY.
MY SISTER DELIA AND HUSBAND FELIX CAME IN FROM BELIZE.
AND MY NAME IS RICARDO AND MY SON DANIEL CAME IN FROM LOS ANGELES CALIFORNIA TO
ATTEND.
WE WERE VERY PROUD TO SEE THE SUPPORT THAT EVERYONE GAVE MY BROTHER KURT.
THAT MADE ME PROUD TO BE AN AMERICAN CITIZEN.
MAY THE LORD GOD BLESS ALL OF YOU AND KEEP YOU DOING HIS WORKS.
SINCERELY
RICARDO CASTILLO
04/20/08
My sincerest thanks to the members who were part of our tribute to my husband, Ron Shepard, whose funeral was held on February 25, 2008 in Boise, Idaho. I watched from the car as the riders with their proud flags escorted us to Idaho's Veteran's Cemetery. As a Viet Nam vet, he carried a burden that many, if not all of you, have endured. You made feel so proud and content that Ron was given such respect for his service to our country.
You offer a wonderful service and gift to our fallen heroes.
Blessings to all of you,
Elizabeth Shepard
04/20/08
THANK YOU to the PGR for your incredible and heartwarming display of honor and respect for my friend Curtis S. Wayne last Friday. Words cannot adequately describe the love, respect and pride I felt, being surrounded by so many of Curt’s bravest brothers and sisters in arm as we laid him to rest. I was both honored and humbled by your presence, and by your dedication to your task of providing Curt, and every soldier, with the final honor all soldiers so deeply deserve. God bless you for all you do, and be assured that I will share your story and your mission with as many others as I can. Thank you for all you have done to serve your country and your fellow soldiers. You will be in my prayers tonight and every night.
Sincerely,
Sharon S. Smith
04/20/08
To the patriot guard I salute you and all that you do for our troops and their family’s it is a shame that you have to ride and shield family’s from these protesters. It should be just a ride to honor these men and women. Any way thanks guys and girls for all you do.
Keep up the good work
God bless America
and
the Patriot Guard
sincerely
Jerry Sexton
04/19/08
To The Patriot Guard Riders,
The family of Joseph J. Lagalski, were honored to have the Patriot Guard Riders presence as escort for our son and father, a proud marine. We thank you. Knowing there were so many people touched by your patriotism for the USA and veterans, was very heart warming. To the riders and members of the Patriot Guard Riders, the highest honor we can give to you, is, “We Salute You ". God Bless you all and may God protect and watch over every one of you. You were a great comfort to us. We will always remember.
We Sincerely Thank You,
Joseph Sr. and Mary Ann Lagalski
Joe's daughters, Samantha and Ashton Lagalski
04/18/08
Dear Patriot Guard;
I just wanted to thank all of you who showed up at Jacob Fairbanks funeral today. It was a difficult day for Jacob's family and seeing your group there was great. It showed me that we veterans are all family, and your presence there reminded me of the brotherhood/sisterhood we all shared in our duty to each other, to our community, and the nation.
Miigwetch
Gerald White
04/18/08
Last Saturday on the 12th of April you guys welcomed my son, Sgt. Scott Brasil home from Afghanistan! It was awesome! He was so surprised!! Your organization rocks!!! It brought tears to everyone who attended eyes. There are not enough wonderful words to say just how grateful our family was for what you did!! Thanks so much. We will call you again when he returns again in Dec. Thanks a million.
Cindy Hoover
04/18/08
I wish to thank you on posting the passing of my son Christian E. Mason and to everyone’s response. I am extremely proud of him. As long as I live he will be alive in my heart.
Gog Bless you and all who have, or will serve our country.
Thoms O. Mason
04/17/08
I read about your organization and I just want to say thank you so much. I fully support our troops as well and want to thank them myself anytime I see someone in uniform. Please tell the families my thoughts and prayers are with them and hope that all troops get home safely. Keep up the great work.
God Bless America!!!!!!!
Eric Logan
04/17/08
In January of this year my son, Thomas Casey, was killed in Iraq. My husband and I were going to pass on your services because we didn't really know anything about your group. The staff at French's Mortuary in Albuquerque and the Army officer we were working with strongly suggested we ask your group to participate----and so we did. I was so glad we did. Your members were so respectful. I so appreciate their presence at all the services and the meaning behind your efforts. Pat Casey, gold star mother.
04/17/08
I heard on the radio this morning about your organization, and the fact that you were going to be at Matt Maupin's funeral --God Bless You All!
His family has been through enough, and has been so courageous about everything--his father was at my daughter's scholarship awards ceremony at Lakota East; and our family has been following and praying for them.
My cousin is a marine with two tours in Iraq, and my daughter has just joined the air force. It brings tears of joy to my eyes to know that the families that have given their best are getting some of the recognition they deserve--and that so many people can put aside their differences to honor our brave and courageous soldiers. Thank you for restoring some faith and pride in the human race.
Teresa Patrick
04/17/08
Patriots,
I was a very good friend of Major Yaggy, who was laid to rest Tuesday at Arlington. I would like to extend the most sincere gratitude to the riders who supported his family during this trying time. I know that your riders have jobs and families that they could have been spending their time with, but instead they chose to express their support to a Marine that they did not know. You guys are a true national treasure, and seeing you out there reminded me of what we fight for every day. I was able to say thank you to some of the riders, but not all of them. Please ensure that the riders who supported this know that David's friends and family appreciated their support.
Please keep up the good work!!!!
Major Brian "Stork" Taylor
Major Brian Taylor, USMC
04/16/08
Thank you so much for sending me the link. I really appreciate it.
Words could not describe the pride our family had with the PG standing beside us. I went to each person and shook their hand to thank them for honoring my Dad. You know what, they looked at me and said "No, we thank your Dad for his service to our country". Wow...I was speechless and so grateful.
We did not know our Dad had stood as a PG for others until he died. In one of the Guest comments from the newspaper obituary, a PG member said he stood with my Dad to support others and it would be his honor to now stand at my Dad's service. The support within the brotherhood of Veterans is so strong. It is an important a lesson to all of us.
The Patriot Guard Riders lined the entire block of the funeral home during his memorial. It was an amazing sight to see and our family was overwhelmed. Those men and women stood in wind, snow and sleet for over three hours. Their commitment took our breath away.
Take care,
Jenny Orrie
04/15/08
On April 15, 2008, you escorted The Wall that Heals into Spartanburg, South Carolina . I wanted to say Thank You for honoring the memory of my brother and all the others that lost their lives in the Vietnam War. I was extremely proud to stand and salute you as you drove by. May God Bless each and every one of you. You are the symbol of what patriotism is all about.
Kathy Dittemore (Little Sis)
04/15/08
My family and I are way beyond being OVERWHELMED by the class and understanding you PGR's are showing to my father. It’s amazing. My dad would have been extremely humbled and proud. I've never seen anything like this. An even prouder American now. Thanks very, very much. Jon Kirchofer (son)
04/14/08
I would like to thank all you who honored my dad Eddie Mack Paugh the day I laid my pop to rest I don’t think I could have made it with out you all there. My thanks also goes out to THE UNITED STATES AIR FORCE for sending their men to my dad’s gravesite also. I can’t remember all your names, but I WILL REMEMBER THAT DAY FOR THE REST OF MY LIFE. THANK YOU ALL FROM THE BOTTOM OF MY HEART! AND MAY GOD BLESS ALL PEOPLE WHO HAVE LOVED ONES, PAST, PRESENT, FUTURE...FALLEN ONES, POW'S, MIA'S AND THOSE CURRENTLY FIGHTING IN OUR ARMED FORCES OF AMERICA!!! "ALL GAVE SOME, SOME GAVE ALL"
THANK YOU,
TROY ALLAN PAUGH.
04/14/08
I want to thank you from the bottom of my heart for being a part of the service for Daddy last Friday. The flag line and procession were amazing -- something I'll never forget --- and as I saw you come, one by one, to salute and pay your respects -- it was truly a blessing. I will have beautiful memories of the service as I remember your presence and participation. Thank you so very, very much.
Love and prayers,
Pat Boswell
04/14/08
On behalf of my brother, Steven Bolei, myself, and the rest of my family we would all like to thank the members of the Patriot Guard who welcomed him home on April the 8th. It was such a wonderful surprise for him and he was so touched that we all would be there just to ride him the rest of the way home. He appreciated it so much. As did we all. We can't thank you all enough for everything you did not only for him, but for all soldiers everywhere. God bless you all! My husband and I look forward to riding with all of you again in future missions. Take care and ride safe!
--Samantha Peters
04/14/08
We would like to thank all that participated in our son's "Homecoming" and making it such a memorable and awesome occasion.
We would like to give Al Conradt and the Patriot Guard Riders a special Thank-you for their part in making Anthony's arrival such a memorable occasion.
We like to thank the Wheaton, IL Fire Department, the Wheaton Police, the local news, Fox News, Wheaton's City Council and Mayor, Lt. Governor Quinn and family and friends, who also made it such a memorable time. Anthony hasn't stopped talking about it.
Jim, Mara, James Paul, Alicia, Jeremy Myrick
04/14/08
David Kern and Fellow Patriot Guard Riders
Captain, NYS Patriot Guard Riders
Dear David:
On behalf of the Lukenbill, the Fries and the Simpson families, I wanted to get this short note off to thank you for Sgt. Christopher Curtis Simpson's recent Patriot Guard detail. From the Easter Sunday morning showing at the Air National Guard airfield for Christopher's Military Escort Learjet arrival home, to the cold, hard, driving wind during our six-plus hour wake on Tuesday, to Christopher's full military honors funeral service on Wednesday; we can't begin to express our appreciation for the Patriot Guard Rider's kind, dedicated and patriotic participation.
Christopher was a proud patriot himself. He was a sharp, engaging, and enthusiastic young man. He was a soldier's soldier, always leading by example. He was a leader in his battalion, and always first into harm's way. He was a wonderful son, grandson, uncle, nephew, cousin, friend and fiancé; to know him was to love him. Christopher was an adventurous soul too, and I'd be remiss if I didn't mention the new Buell motorcycle he was so proud of that was recently purchased following his first tour of duty in Iraq. Christopher shared the love of freedom, the love of country, the unwavering respect of the men and women who serve, and everything the Patriot Guard Riders stand for.
Please pass along our heart-felt thanks to all who stood with the New York State Patriot Guard Riders and honored Christopher. Your efforts have been a blessing to our families.
Thank you for a mission well done.
Sincerely,
Scott Simpson
1st Sgt. Crew Chief
174th Fighter Wing
Air National Guard
04/14/08
Patriot Guard Riders
Thank you for your kindness in honoring our husband, father and grandfather James E. Love for his service to our country.
We know he would have been so pleased. Your special attention is appreciated.
The Love family
04/14/08
Hi Dave - I'm one of the old FACs that attended Major Woods' funeral at Arlington and I was pleasantly surprised when I realized that you and the other PGR folks were there to escort his casket. It's a great service you provide to honor fallen comrades and support their families and I appreciate your participation. It meant a lot to everyone. Maj Woods and I were in the same squadron in Vietnam at different times and I can tell you that the work he was doing as a Covey FAC North of the DMZ was both dangerous and important. The goal was to stop the trucks coming out of North Vietnam carrying munitions and weapons for the NVA down South. The Covey FACs found and destroyed many trucks, but there were too many anti-aircraft guns up there and we took losses too. Unfortunately, Bob Woods was one of them. As you point out in your Forum, Freedom is NOT Free, and too many good people like Bob paid the price. Thanks again to all the PGR folks for caring enough to honor a fallen comrade.
Best Regards
Dave MacKay
Covey 536
04/13/08
Please pass this on to all the faithful riders who came out in support of SSG Emanuel Pickett and SSG David B. Williams. I think you all do a beautiful thing by attending the honorary receiving of our fallen heroes and being there to support the family and escort them. I'm always grateful for all you do to stand and support our armed forces. You all are wonderful and as a USO volunteer, I love to see you coming!
Thanks so much for your support!
You're awesome!
Brenda
USO-RDU volunteer
and Military Family Supporter
PGR – US Military Supporter
04/12/08
Dear Patriot Guard,
I was watching the news tonight and I saw what your people did for the fallen Marine. It's good to know that there are people that will stand up against hard headed fools that are claiming to be speaking for God when all they spew is hatred. I never feel more angry than when narrow minded people do such horrible things to anyone, let alone people who are grieving. I recently lost my nephew in Iraq and you were there for my brother's family as well. I just want to say thank you, and keep up the good work.
R Phillips
Vacaville, Ca
04/12/08
I just want to say as a friend and Mom THANK YOU THANK YOU GOD BLESS ALL THE RIDERS WHO WHERE THERE TODAY FOR JOSH MUNNS, my son who is an Army Ranger in Iraq right now and was a class mate of Josh also thanks you, you men and women who came together at the family's and communities time of need are true Love in action I will never forget the feeling of coming around the bend in the road passing the few sad people who don't have a clue(protesters) and seeing all of you with our flag's flying and the respect and love that you radiated again
THANK YOU AND GOD BLESS a sister in love and country Robin Saunders Anderson CA.
04/12/08
Thank you guys sooo much for taking the time to help us welcome Michael back and escorting him home... He was very surprised... It was a wonderful day.... Something Mikey nor his family will ever forget... I don’t think that there is anyway to express how much we enjoyed everything thing you guys did... Thanks again!!!!!! The Handzo family!!!
04/12/08
My family and I attended the funeral for Josh Munns today in Redding Ca, and just wanted to say THANK YOU soooooooooooo much for doing what u do, it truly made my heart melt. My son-in-law served in Iraq a couple years ago, we were one of the lucky families as he returned unharmed. God Bless everything you do.. Thank you.
Jan
04/12/08
Dear Craig and the rest of PGR,
I am writing to express my (long overdue) gratitude for PGR's assistance, support and respect in honor of my brother, SSG Joseph Curreri (September 23, 1980-October 26, 2007). PGR greeted my family at LAX pre-dawn on November 7, 2007. They ably escorted us to the funeral home in LA freeway traffic and then stood at attention, offering much needed strength, as we were able to be by Joe's side for one last time. That day goes down as the most difficult in my life, and the image of PGR members by us that day will be forever ingrained in my mind. PGR, in even greater numbers, returned two days later to escort us to the funeral mass and cemetery.
In the hustle and bustle of life today, I was amazed at the support PGR extended to my family, especially on such short notice - though we were complete strangers before that day, PGR members took the time and energy to stand by us, bound by a love of country and respect for those who serve and have served.
Your work is honorable, incredibly appreciated and will never be forgotten. Joe very much admired your organization.
Best regards,
Shannon Curreri Trevino
04/12/08
I was at the services and visitation for Cody Wanken in Hampton, Iowa last week, and wanted to thank all of you Patriot Guard members who stood guard in that rain and cold for Cody. It is such a wonderful thing to see your pride and dedication!!!!!!
Thanks to you all
Nadine Goodwin
Hampton, Iowa
04/12/08
Dear Mr. Wells,
On behalf of the family of Matt Morris, please accept our sincerest thanks for your committed service, support and encouragement for our fallen soldier. Our family is honored, proud, comforted and blessed to have you and your fellow riders so graciously give of yourselves in memory of my nephew.
With affection and appreciation,
Diane Afflerbach on behalf the Morris family and extended family
04/12/08
As a member of the military for 30 years and having served in Vietnam from 1968 thru 1973 with the US Army, I just wanted to say Thank you for all you do for our servicemen and their families, I was so impressed that I joined your organization this past week, again thank you for all you do.
Sincerely
SSgt CL Raymond US Army Ret
04/11/08
Recently i learned of your noble actions through news of the sickest sort. Those pretenders of faith from Kansas were trying to spread their venom in my home town this last week and thankfully were greeted with a united front against them. I did some research and seen how you have become a barrier between this cruel group and the honor that our fallen should receive. You are like angels sent and my hat goes off and am this day proud so very proud to be an American. May God bless this group and to remain a steady hand to our great servicemen and brave servicewomen. Thank you.
Keith
04/11/08
I’m an Army wife out of Fort Bragg and I have to say I am touched by you all and what you do. My husband is currently deployed in Afghanistan and out of that I get a lot of negative junk from people that look down on our soldiers, but seeing your website reminded me that there are still wonderful people out there that do wonderful things. My husband loves his Harley Davidson and I think one day we'd like to take a ride with you amazing people. The death of our soldiers is a horrible thing but it is a reality, and knowing that someone out there is willing to protect and honor their memory from whacko protestors does my heart good. Thanks for reminding me to keep my head up high and be proud...sometimes in this crazy world I can forget to do so.
With love and respect,
Casey **
** Last name removed for PERSEC
04/11/08
We would like to thank you for all you did for us and the family of Sgt. Thomas C. Ray II. The service you provide is beyond anything we have ever experienced. Your presence and assistance at the airport, during the visitation and on the day of the service helped us to bring honor to a fallen soldier. May God bless you.
Gary and Vicki West
West Funeral Home
Weaverville, NC
04/11/08
PGR members ~
Most recently i was present at the posthumous Silver Star presentation for SSG Patrick Lee Lybert in Ladysmith, Wisconsin and i was proud to see such strong “PGR” support at the event for Patrick’s family and those community members that attended (approx 200).
I also attended a bike show in Rice Lake, Wisconsin last weekend and I would like to commend the “PGR” that manned the booth to promote the “PGR” organization. They did a wonderful job and generated a lot of interest.
Great job PGR !
Mike / Master
04/10/08
Good Afternoon Woody,
On behalf of Kristy and our entire family, I would to extend a thank you to you and all of the PGR. Your support was amazing. The service you guys provided was astounding to us. Thank you, thank you, thank you.
Keep up the great work. You all are part of what makes America so great. Thank you, again.
Sincerely,
On behalf of
TSgt William Jefferson's family
Tammy Davis
04/10/09
I would like to thank the PGR's. From the family of Herb Humes. You guys are the best. When Herb was called by God. You guys where one of the 1st people I could think of, he loved what the PGR's stands for. And with what you guys did for are family was as my dad said was really cool. It made him cry. I cried too when I saw all the bikes leading the way. I know Herb was smiling at us and given the thumbs up!
Thanks again...
David Humes
04/09/08
Good morning. Keeping updated on Matt Maupin, OH, down here, led me to your site, in my Google search. I guess the Lord wanted me to send you a huge heart-felt thank you, and so I do. I thank God for every moment I have my kids, and the freedoms I do, from those of you who currently serve, and have honorably served. I thank you. I've had the honor to be a USMC mom for 8 yrs 11 mos. He wanted to career it, but the good Lord saw different, and today, I hold the honor of being a DAV mom. Its comforting to know you're there. And I pray that you stay safe in your travels, wherever Duty calls, and all roads lead you. You're in my prayers today. Thank you so much again! God Speed and ride safe!!
Our warmest regards,
The Bostic - Coad family
Jeanne Clermont
Clermont, FL
04/07/08
During a conversation with Brigadier General Gilman, Commander BAMC and GPRMC yesterday, he shared great feedback he received from the mother of a troop our members escorted “home” to a rehab center in Arlington, TX. He asked that Terry Smith and I pass along his appreciation for this “mission well accomplished” and all we do in support of the troops and their families. Well done Patriot Guard Riders!
TJ Haynes & Terry Smith
ALR 593, Converse TX
Patriot Guard Riders
04/07/08
The family of Charles Monelongo, E-4 Nam Vet. Thanks the PGR for there very respectful display of honor for our beloved brother "Chuck". All attendants paying respect were amazed of the amount of brotherhood among our Vets.
04/07/08
My name is SPC Justin Jagta, I just wanted to thank you so much for having our backs at home. Today was the first time I’ve heard of the westboro "church", and I cannot believe how awful they are. I will tell everyone about the work you are doing. I would like to thank everyone who stood between grieving families and these protesters, I cannot imagine how my family would feel if I came back NMC (non-mission capable), and those crazy people where there.
04/06/08
I am proud to have been able to call James Fezatte was one of my best friends for more than 30 years. He was a great man, dedicated to serving his God, his family, his country, and his community. I had the sad honor to attend his funeral in Millbrook, AL a couple days ago as his parents, wife and children (along with hundreds of family members and friends) prepared to say goodbye to this fallen hero. I am many miles away from where Jim made his home. Once I heard the news of his sudden death, I searched on line to find any information I could. Among the first postings I came across was one from the Patriot Guard, standing for those who stood for us.
Upon my arrival at the memorial service, I was overwhelmed by the outpouring of support. I found myself especially in gratitude to those that did not know Jim, but showed up in his honor. The numerous members of the Patriot Guard led the procession, flags waving proudly, and then stood their watch in dignified but quiet manner as we made our way to the door to pay our last respects. I only had occasion to tell one or two of those members of the appreciation that so many of us felt. I want to pass along that appreciation to all of you. And one day, I pray that you will all find the same comfort and compassion offered to your family.
With genuine respect and gratitude....
Joe Grzelak, friends and family of LEO James D Fezatte, USAF (ret)
04/050/8
I had the great honor of observing your group twice: