Something new...  We are going to change this section to make it a tool for each BoD member to have an opportunity to post notices on what is going on in their particular area of responsibility or to address current hot topics that are generating a lot of questions.  So, I'll take the first turn and maybe we will start a poll on who should go next!

I think we are at a very important time in the history of the Patriot Guard Riders.  We have some difficulties to work through as we grow and consider a vision for the future or the organization and we are also at a time of some changes in how we "run" the corporation.  As many of you are already aware, the most recent election to the BoD was made through nominations by the Regional Captains instead of just by the BoD.  We had a very tough time making the final decision on who would fill that slot because the nominations were that good.  Tommy "TomKat" Poss was the umm... lucky individual selected to the position of Secretary.

At the same time, we've also started a process to create several advisory committees to assist in guiding the Board of Directors.  Russ Sears will be spearheading that effort and we are all looking forward to success with these committees.  Another change underway is the restructuring of the forum areas.  Zippy is going to try to better utilize the forums for effective communication that has questions and real answers.  Some of the forums that aren't in use are going to disappear completely.    There will be notices posted before removal in case there are any links or info that a member would like to copy.  Each area of the site should express the courtesy, honor, and respect that drives our mission; even in disagreement.  We have to be aware of the visitors and guests that view our site.

I see improvements in communication and understanding at many levels, some of which were overdue.  I know that is one of the biggest areas that we have to continue to work at.  With this many "diverse" viewpoints and opinions, that is expected; but we can always improve. 

I am honored that the BoD asked me to fill the position of President and I want each of you to know that I work for you.  As the former State Captain of Missouri, at every mission  we've always acknowledged that the riders make the mission happen.  I want each of you, across the United States of America, to also be aware that I still do know that. 

There are many concerns going on, but I ask that we all focus on those that need us most and the mission we all share; and that we work together to help comfort and honor the fallen, the wounded, and their families.  We do this because we know it is the right thing to do; because we've looked upon grieving family members and heard them thank us for being there.  And we know that we've only given a few hours, a couple of tanks of gas, or missed time at work.  We know that we owe our thanks, our respect, and our freedoms to those we stand the flag line for...

Patriot Guard Riders Mission Statement

The Patriot Guard Riders is a diverse amalgamation of riders from across the nation. We have one thing in common besides motorcycles. We have an unwavering respect for those who risk their very lives for America’s freedom and security. If you share this respect, please join us.

We don’t care what you ride or if you ride, what your political views are, or whether you’re a hawk or a dove. It is not a requirement that you be a veteran. It doesn't matter where you’re from or what your income is; you don’t even have to ride. The only prerequisite is Respect.

Our main mission is to attend the funeral services of fallen American heroes as invited guests of the family. Each mission we undertake has two basic objectives.

1. Show our sincere respect for our fallen heroes, their families, and their communities.

2. Shield the mourning family and their friends from interruptions created by any protestor or group of protestors.

We accomplish the latter through strictly legal and non-violent means.

To those of you who are currently serving and fighting for the freedoms of others, at home and abroad, please know that we are backing you. We honor and support you with every mission we carry out, and we are praying for a safe return home for all.

 

 

These are welcome changes. Thanks for all that y'all do on a daily basis.

Thanks so much for all that you all do on the BOD.

I don't envy you one bit!...LOL

Keep the faith!

New member, 1 month. First mission was an honor to stand flag line. I do this in memory of my Dad, Army Air Corp 1937 and full time NJ Air National Guard. 33 years service. Mission and group outstanding. Thank you for the professional and respectful operation. Standing by. SECURITY MOM NJ

Just tell me where to Stand...

Also... thanks for ALL that you do.

Good Job:And i need a flag to send with my daughter she is beeing deployed in july

Thanks and appreciation to all the BoD members, MODS, State Captains, and unnamed others who contribute of their time to the Patriot Guard Riders and for this website.

Thank you ALL... Where do you want me to Stand?

I am with you brothers and sisters PGR bad boy. fat fred.

A quote from Ride Captain Grnpaw at a mission in North Carolina over the weekend, "I am in charge of these folks but they do what they want to do" -kind of fitting for this moment.

Thanks for all you do, and just tell me where to stand in the flagline.

Highflyer

Trying to find connections in Pensacola, Fl. -
Mobile, Al. area. Can anybody help?????

"TomKat", just wanted to say congratulations, and thanks for stepping up to the plate.
T-Bone

T-Bone , try being an RC for once and see.

I've just joined, a mother of two US Army soldiers, God brought them both safely home, more than once. To be a part of this group is an honor and I would love to know just how I get involved. I am in Longview Texas, a single Mom with lots of time on her hands. I can't think of a better way to spend it. God Bless you all! Stef

Keep the faith. You are doing great things.
Raymond "Thumper" Davis
Maiden, NC

Hello To all I am a new member! my name is Erin Robinette(BRINGTHEMHOME24). Well we just had the final memorial run for John here in maryville, TN. I have a Sharpie Paint marker!!! for anyone who would like to sign his guard rail if they are visiting the town of maryville!! or for anyone local that has yet to sign it!! I have the marker with me always.. so if you need to,or would like to sign please fill free to give a call day or night an I will be glad to meet you with the marker. you can reach me at 856-805-1357 anytime!! Thanks to all an have a wounderful day!! an as always please be safe!!! Erin

Hello all, I am a new member. Navy veteran of 5.5 yrs Desert shield and storm one. Now I work security keeping the bad boys in line. Please call on me if you need someone in upstate NY, I will do my best to free up some time to ride and stand tall with you.

Hey, new member here and in the akron/kent ohio area. Looking for a mission and a place to stand and honor heros. Drop me a line.
I'm a father of two sons serving overthere.
maverick53_1405@yahoo.com

Hi, I am a new memeber. My name is Xanthi and my husband Erik, is a SGT. in the U.S. Army. He is deploying in Jan 09 for his third deployment. I just wanted to let you know that I think you are angels. You have such good hearts. I was just learning about the westboro cult and I think it is sick that they do that. Thay are very backwards. God sent you guys and I as a military wife, hope I never have to ask you to attend but if I do, it will be an honor. Keep doing gods work and our thoughts and prayers are with you.

IS THEIR A RIDE TOMORROW 7/23/08 IN GAINESVILLE, GA FOR Cpl. Matthew Phillips' ? He was killed in action in Afghanistan last week

I thought this was for the BOARD talk comments!!!

thank you i am very proud to be a member thank you thank you thank you love you all !!!!!!

HELLO EVERYONE. I AM A NEW MEMBER AS OF ABOUT AN HOUR AGO. I HAVE A NEPHEW IN THE MARINES ,DEPLOYED IN IRAQ. IF THERE ARE ANY MISSIONS NEAR BAY CITY MICHIGAN PLEASE CONTACT ME AND LET ME KNOW. GOD BLESS YOU ALL.

I am a new member as of just now. I served in ODS 90-91 and Member of Combat Veterans Motorcycle Association and the VFW here in Portage Indiana. Unfortionatly I am having wrist surgery on Aug 29th and won't be able to ride again until next year, I hope to get as much time in doing what is needed until then. I hope to meet many of you in the next couple of weeks and ride with those coming home soon.

SEMPER FI TO ALL WHO STAND FOR THEM I HAVE BEEN IN SINCE 006 AND EVERYTHING THAT I HAVE BEEN ON IN PA NJ ANC IM SOOOOOOO PROUD TO BE PART OF THIS CAUSE WE DIDINT GET SHIT WHEN WE CAME HOME REDDS2 PHILLY PA AN AMERICA TILL I DIE

thanks for all your efforts here, and thanks for letting us participate whenever we can.

been a member since early 2008, in honor of many family members who've served and also my son currently in MOS at NAS. god bless all of you parents. one day at a time.
if there are any feel good missions in minnesota in the next 3 months i'd like to do one or so. am here in minne, mn, with my little one, having some medical stuff done at U of Mn. am marinemomkerry on here

I have come to realize that while our brothers and sisters have been abroad fighting and supporting the greatest nation ever we have failed to truely be patriots. We do the eye wash everyone can see but have allowed their country to be inviltrated by illegal people who are taking their jobs, driving up health care, distroying their social security, are unaccountable for their crimes, fleeing across the border etc. It's bad enough to recieve news that keeps your mind off your already overwhelming job at hand but for something to happen back here where we are entrusted to hold this hill is unforgivable. Don't be a Part Time Patriot , there's no difference in the seriousness, and obligation. You are to hold the homefront. This may make you uncomfortable, suck it up, we should'nt have let it get this far. There is no excuse or special circumstances Patriot Guard is exactly what it says. "Standing for Those who Stood for US"

I wrote the above Storm Bringer

I thought this was a place for BOD members to discuss issues, not a comment page???

I have felt a tremendous honor being made a part of this group and being allowed to stand with my brothers and sisters to honor our heros.

With regard to the mission for ;LCDR Joseph Priestly (Ret)
If there are any folks planning to make the ride, from the peninsula and would like group up to get to stage 1, how about pooling plans and effort to ride together.
I'm in Newport News.

Howdy All,
I'm new but proud beyond words to see what you all do for great American heros. I look forward to becoming involved locally, and admire everyone in this great organization. What a great way to show support. Thank You!!!!!

Hello all, I am a new mamber (to fellow vietnam vets (FNG) ) I spent 21 yrs, 8mo and 14 days hard time in the Army,I hope I help in some way. we must take care of our own ( down with Hanoi Jane)

Hello, I'm a new member here in Kentucky. Hope I can ride and help all I can. Lead Dog

Hi Iam a new member. Iam retired Navy and a member of American Legion Post 283 Jacksonville Fla. Do we post here or not. Tell me so i can do the right thing.

Hi all. New Member here, RVN Vet, MSgt, USMC (Ret). Anniston, AL. I don't ride a bike, but I can sure handle a Jeep Grand Cherokee as a support vehicle pretty well. First mission this past Saturday, Capt. Conner, USAF finally came home after 41 years MIA in 'Nam. Very touching to say the least.

I see all these 'new member' post so I guess I am an old member. ha Thank you all for what you do and for giving us civilians a chance to 'stand the line' with such special friends and Veterans. I am truly Honored to have the opportunity to meet such fine people at the same time we are paying our respects to others.

Hey I am a new member just outside Memphis TN. I served 11 in the Army. The last tour was in Iraq 2003-2005
Tommy

Hi Patriot Guard Riders,

My husband and i (Chon and Diana Baca) had the pleasure of meeting/riding with your Albuquerque group of Patriot Guard Riders during the month of July, for the Fire and Ice bike run.

In case the flyer, photo that was scanned, does not come out clear...here is the information:


Sunday...November 9, 2008
Come join us at the Santa Fe Veterans Day Parade
in support of our Veterans and the 187th Assault Helicopter Company's annual reunion.


Meeting time and place:

0700-0730 Meet at Valero Gas Station on the corner of Tramway and Rainbow Rd
off of I-25 just south of Sandia Casino


0730-0830: ROLL OUT to Santa Fe


0830-0900: Line up for Parade -Fort Marcy Rec. Complex
490 Bishops Lodge Rd.
Santa Fe, NM 87501

"something New" is like eight months old now...

hey everyone i will be returning home the first week of jan. from iraq and was wondering if there is goin to be any runs in feb. thats when my bike will be in texas. i know its a wayz out just wondering.

SGT Barnum Robert

p.s. any of you that went to SPC morris's funeral in ft. hood i thank you so much.