COMMENTS
AMEN!!
Well put and taken under advisement...
well said. HOTH missions are a great way to say thank you to the ones still here.
Jeff,
I think a lot of us don't feel we do enough to begin with. I can understand taking a break and I have only wishing the whole time I could do so much more.
Like you said though take care of you so we can always be a we.
Mscrybaby
Thanks again Jeff for your great leadership. Truer words couldn't be spoken from a man who has grown to 58000 fellow patriots in a years time. I admit, saying "I have to stay home" and then not giving 1000 excuses why is hard to do, but it has to be done. I always feel like I have lost a part of me when I am not on the web-site for a day or two, but it is good discipline:( I am proud to be a Patriot Guard Rider and I will ride or drive as long and as hard to honor our fallen Soldier Patriots.
God bless America!
God bless the Patriot Gaurd!
God bless all who stayed home to get recharged today.
ZZZZZZZZZZZZZZZZZZZZZZZZZZZZ That is me obeying the command from headquarters. LOL
Sam
I agree Twister...recently have missed a few I wanted to make, but there were things here at the homefront that had to be handled. I do as much as I can, and I also agree that while it is emotional, it also leaves us with a lift of spirit for having done just a little something in their honor.
Jeff,
Thanks for the advice from a lesson you have learned the hard way. It was definitely a message I needed personally. I have missed two missions lately due to work commitments and was feeling "guilty." Now I can look back and realize if I commit myself too strongly I won't have a job to support the missions I can ride in. I was feeling down in the dumps about missing the missions but your message has uplifted my spirits. Guess your message was successful because it has helped at least one
adccop
AZ Ride Captain
Thanks for saying what you said, Jeff, but I still live with the torment of not being able to give more. I've been on board for quite awhile, yet feel that I have given so little. I know that my work and my family must be my priority, I've burned through all my vacation, and yet, I ask myself, "Is it enough"? What I give is so little, compaired to what my brothers have already given. Is there enough time left in my life to catch up???
Respect-Randy
I did the honors for PFC Kincaid in the Atlanta area on Thursday, a total of 404 miles, and felt exhausted, between that and the funeral details I already have to do in the Military anyway. But on Friday there was the SGT Mike Stokley Highway dedication in Newnan, GA. Everyone there was in good spirits and was a good "recharging" ride for me.
Take care of eachother, especially right after the ride. Walking Slack and Live Round did that after the funeral on Thursday...good looking out for all involved...
Riding with PGR until PGR rides for me...
This organization has given me back my life and given me something bigger than myself.
Important stuff when you are an empty nester with a kid in Iraq and way too much time on your hands. Until he gets back I will run every mission I can. Every mission is hard, had not cried since I put my son on the plane in December, basically walked around like a zombie until I ran my first one, but the elation afterwards of knowing that the family had solid proof that their sacrifice was appreciated takes the exhaustion away.
The PGR gives more than it takes, I have gotten back my pride in being a Veteran. Standing up a little taller these days....5'3 and a HALF.
When I look into the eye's of a living hero who needs to know America cares, I in turn find that someone is looking into the eye's of a caring American, Me!! We give what we can and help where we can. Feeling Guilty is a sign of dedication, but it can be a precursor to burnout as well!! take care of you and yours because they take care of you!!
Thanks Boss for stating my feelings to the letter!!
Well said, I am looking forward to some good will rides and welcome home missions. It is needed to keep our spirits!! Good post Jeff!!
Thanks, Jeff, for really expressing the feelings of so many of us who are wanting to do more everyday we can for our military families, and yet, feel guilty when we want so badly to honor a hero when he or she has given the ultimate sacrifice for this great country of ours. I have really been battling the "feeling guilty", when there has absolutely been nothing I could do when I have to pass a ride. It certainly isn't because we don't love the hero or his family and friends, but like you said, we must provide the bacon at home while trying to balance our lives so we don't get burnt out. It has been a load lifted off of this old Air Force veteran, who would feel greatly honored to attend any event possible to honor our heros, no matter what type of event. I have never been to a funeral where I haven't walked away blessed much more than anything I could do for the hero or their family.
I am only one, but I am one of 58,000+ people who feel the same way I do, I believe.
God bless you, Jeff, and all who have participated in any event to honor our heros.
I feel so honored to be a part of the Patriot Guard organization.
Jim Sandefur III
USAF, SAC 1963-67
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“Only two defining forces have ever offered to die for you,
Jesus Christ and the American G.I.
One died for your soul;
the other for your freedom.”
It's relieving to know I wasn't the only one feeling the way you describe....gut emotional pain for the great losses...nationwide....not only in my state. Not as a Vet myself do these missions "get to me", but as the mom of a current soldier and daughter of a combat WW2 vet.
With every mission comes the reminder of what we stand for and what THEY Stood for.
Thanks Jeff~
Thank you Jeff .I too have struggled with the guility feelings for having to miss missons.Juggling family and work is a chore in itself.I love this organization and its mission and do what I can when I can.One thing that will be constant is that our heroes and their families are always in my heart and prayers.I am a member from the great state of North Carolina. Thanks again Mark
Jeff,
When I cannot get to or do a mission, I still have the emotional pull to be there. The welcome home rides are a relief and any other form of tribute we give helps me remember why we can do this and gives additional strength to carry on. It is for a few such as you that this great organization exists and is now surpassing 57000 members. It is for the honored that you started this endeavor. It is for both that we carry on. By taking a break every now and again we can recharge our emotions and continue in our noble and honorable quest to make sure no one forgets the heros.
Jeff , From my old radio humping days , ROGER,WILCO,OUT...... T
Jeff,
I couldn't agree more. The emotional drain of attending funeral after funeral can be devastating. Couple this with logistical concerns that have to be dealt with for each and every mission, for us RC's and SC's. Delegation of duties can greatly reduce this stress, and allow us to concentrate on the mission at hand when it happens. For me, seeing all the people (old and new) that turn-out is so uplifting, that my "job" becomes as "pleasurable" as it possibly can be.
Here in Iowa, we have established such a good rapport with surrounding states RC's and SC's that we have a constant support base as many of our missions are multi-state logistical events. SC's set the mission, RC's get delegated duties for their respective areas taken care of quickly and relay that information back and forth so everyone's on the same page, and all of our wonderful members step forward in their show of honor and respect, which is so deeply appreciated by the grieving families.
Fortunately, I am self-employed and have a family that is just as patriotic as I believe I am, so I don't have to deal with a boss who needs me on the job or co-workers who can't understand why this is so important and think that I'm causing them to have to take up the slack for those lost few hours, adding further stress to these solemn occasions.
Now with HOTH, we have an avenue to attend functions that are uplifting, and give us a chance to meet with those who have "made it back". Last night's event for the returning 134th Medical Group, having such a great turnout with the sudden change in weather (which I'm sure none of us even felt, or cared about, after we saw the busses loaded with our returning soldiers), and their stopping to visit with us before completing the last 20 miles to home and loved ones. How SPECIAL that was, to have them thank us for our service to them. I'm still reeling from that experience alone.
Our servicemen and women overseas are hearing more and more about our efforts for their fallen comrades, and having them seek us out to tell us how honored they are that we have stepped to the fore for them can do more for the lifting of spirits than just about anything I can think of.
But more to your point, EVERYONE let us know when you're in need of a break. Nobody can do everything, all the time. We are all here for the same purpose, whether it's supporting grieving families or supporting our fellow members in times of need.
Jeff Truer words never spoken. Being one that wants to do all that I can I've been there and needed other PGRs to help me out @ a funeral. Heat now cold will work on anyone in time. I wish that I had found this group sooner but now i am here to service in any way possible to help the family and friends of our brothers and for the returning troops. Today I've gotten notice for 3 mission in my area and know that I will not be able to attend all of them. We need to do what we can and our fellow PGR members should remember that. Thanks for the words that was needed and hope that everyone understands this message GOD has a message for all of us and he will show us the way to the right answers. GOD BLESS all of us! John
So True.... I've missed mission, and haven't felt guilty, knowing those that have stepped up are dedicated, capable and willing to do the right thing.... I've trained and mentored them... therefore, I'm at that mission in spirit and my extension. If I was independently wealthy and didn't have to work.... I'd be at every mission within a 3 state area of me! But, I do what I can. I will testify the Welcome Home mission are refreshing to the soul.... The last Army Spc I approached admitted to me... "when you walked up, I and didn't know you from adam... I thought you'd spit on me.... I was more scared of how'd I react if I was spit on." Now where in the hell did that idea come from?! I'm glad this young warrior not only got the surprise of his life at that honor Guard, but even a little teary eyed too! Now isn't that kewl!
Regards from the Right coast....
10-4 I hear ya !!!
zzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzz
Excellent advise!
After Welcoming Home 130 Marines Last night, Your absolutely Right! It was truley refreshing to see Marine Dads hugging and holding their Babies for the first time, and the Noise of happiness!
Jeff,
You're right on with regard to welcome home rides and other 'feel good' rides going a long way to recharge one's batteries. While I have attended fewer honors missions than some, and more than others, I still see them as something that I must do. Being retired its less of a personal burden to me than many others. I go when I can, and admit it when I cannot. Your message is well taken. I often worry that some will find it too much for them and fade from our ranks. We must never forget who we are and continue to serve our heroes and their families.
Bill
Jeff,
Thank You for the advise. Yes it seem enough is not enough.
Just trying to make sure these hero's are not treated the way we were treated when we came home in a Body Bag or Not.
Pegleg
Vietnam 1967-68
I hear ya, and agree. I'm glad you said it. We need to make sure we don't judge ourselves or other PGR members for this reason.
-sv4sheri
Thanks for that, Jeff, and to all that have posted so far. The last two honor missions Carmen and I rode (MANY miles away from home) were strenuous physically but seemed to just absolutely wreck me mentally and spiritually. Hadn't been that depressed in years. She and I took off for the Ozark mountains and just rode by ourselves for a few days last weekend and decompressed with nothing but our own company and some scenery.
We'll be riding our missions again soon enough and truly look forward to it. It's just really easy to forget what a little R & R will do for the soul.
God bless all of you who were and are always there to pick up the slack when the need arises.
Trog
You are right. As an Marine medic we know about burnout. But,also I remember that no one was there for us who served in Viet Nam. No welcome homes or honor guard funerals. I do this not only for this generation...but for my fellow veterans who deserved more. We do this to instill into others what being an American veteran is all about. Freedom isnt free. Never was and never shall be. And yes...some pay the ultimate sacrafice. So,if I shall become a little tired or wet. Or,I miss some event. Its the least I could do. Its the way my father taught me. And although he's been gone for thirty years ,those things he taught me still remain. The Marine Corps seconded it. And all my fellow vets made it so. Duty....Honor....Country. It is these three things that the "Greatest Generation" installed in us and applies today. To all my PGR friends and families across this Nation....Semper Fi
When I do KIA or POW/MIA missions, I come home completely drained. Earlier this year there were five KIA missions and I was only able to attend one due to work or location. I felt bad about not making the other four. Another PGR told me that even when I am not physically at the funeral, my thoughts, prayers and repect is carried by the riders who are there.
I have a son in Afghanistan, and the KIA funerals really hit me hard. I would tearfully tell my pastor who is a National Guard chaplin that I don't what to EVER be on the other side of the church door for my son. But I know in my heart that if God takes him, I will have family, friends and Patriot Guard Riders there for my family and me. That drives me on.
The fun missions for military retirements, VFW fund drives for care packages, recognition presentations, and just getting together is what energizes me. The letters of appreciation let me know what I, what WE are doing is right and good.
I truly am indebted to the Patriot Guard Rider leadership from national down to local ride captains for teaching me that being patriotic does not have to involve violent confrontation but insterad just being there and showing our support for the families.
I am proud to wear my back patch and other PGR patches and buttons. It makes me walk a little taller, show more confidence and pride and helps me express my support in an orderly fashion.
I pray for all of you riders every day, and know that God smiles down on us and our mission.
Thank your for making patriotism a GOOD thing.
I just got back from a VFW convention this past week end and a Past National Commander said during his speech relative to honoring our heros. "IF NOT ME THAN WHO WILL DO IT".
While I get emotional I also get the feeling of the comradeship with all the riders who by the way I need to tell you thanks for your support.
very well put. sometimes we think we have to attend every thing and do every thing. no one person carry the load. that's why there are our brothers n sisters to help. as u say--no disgrace in sitting it out. God Bless us all.
Thanks Jeff.
Jeff,
May we use this to help explain the PGR's expanded mission role to those who may not understand it?
Thanks.
So true Jeff,,
Burnout can happen so fast,,its hard to let a mission happen knowing that you want to be there and are unable to make for any reason,,always enjoy your words of wisdom,,ride safe,,
Grinch
Yes it is difficult to bury our youth. I could go into pages of details of how I feel about burrying our youth.
What I can't understand is why I can't join the Army. I just got off the phone with my local recruiter. He say I am too old. Even with my prior service experience they can't do it. I am 54 years old in gerat shape. I have raised a fine family. With tons of experience. Does anybody know how I might join the Army? I want to help protect our youth. It tears me up burrying them.
I am the 54 yr old trying to join
please contact:
toruss@sbcglobal.net
Since I was drafted to be the state captain for Oregon, I've been on....too many missions. I thank God for the support staff that we've been able to assemble, not only in Oregon, but in southwest Washington as well. The "command" structure that we have in place makes it a lot easier for me to pass the reigns to my assistant S/C for a period of time, so that I may not only take a bit of a breather from the administration duties necessary, but it will also give me time to focus on my new job. I can rest easy, knowing that, in my absence, the various R/Cs, and the State Regional Ride Captains that I've appointed will work with SSgt BAM in a professional way, and the PGR in Oregon will continue on solid ground, with solid leadership until I return. There's many I need to thank: Pat, Grizz, Gary, B.J., Kodiak, Lou, Dave, Bubz, Rick, Sherrie, Lone Wolf, and a host of others. Not the least of which: Reaps...Thanks for the help, bud!
Zopa
Thank you Jeff!
Here I sat feeling guilty for not being able to make as many missions as I wanted.
I came on the board to get some information for some other people that had asked about PGR and saw this.. It renewed my faith in PGR, and myself.
Thanks for those words we feel so bad when we can't make a mission, we feel like we aren't doing enough,but we have realized that we do have to take a brake and we do have to take care of other things or we'll be walking instead of riding after they take our bike.but it's good to hear your words. Jerry & Linda
Jeff,
I have experienced burn out before. I was a Navy Hospital Coprsman. As an HM, I saw too much, really. I knew I was in trouble, when the death of a child raised no tears in my eyes.
I have been PGR since June 06. My first month, I think I went on 4 missions. I have been on four since July.
Partly due to lack of funds(I was unemployed all summer) and partly due to proximity.
Working again, and able to afford it. I felt bad recently when I could not attend due to work.
I will always feel guilty for not being able to attend a funeral in say Idaho, although I live in Tennessee and know it's impossible to make it.
However, I also know how much it means to the family to know we in attendance represent all 50,000 plus members. That the group of 10, 20 or even 200 bikes and cages is but a small piece of the folks who are thinking of the family.
I encourage all who feel like I do, to not let it get ya down. Don't feel like every mission in your back yard is one you HAVE to make. Just make the ones you can, and it will all work out.
My first mission there were 14 of us! Yet the family and friends felt like there were hundreds of us. Some one told them we represented thousands more who would have been there if they could.
THAT is what we are what we do. so skip a mission if you feel like "oh man not another one, I can't take this". Believe me, it took me years to recover. I am now back to my old self, emotionally I am well balanced. Mentally, well....
you can vote on that when you meet me.
DOC Lee
West Tennessee
pgrcagerdoc@hotmail.com
Anyone needing to talk out a potential burn out, contact me, I'll listen, I'll help.
Dear Jeff and all PGR members,
Thank you so much for these words. I had to take off the past 3-4 mos. due to loss of family members and illness. I have felt guilty for missing the missions that were in my travel area. I now know that though I was not able to be there with you, you knew I was there in spirit. I am back now and honored more than ever to ride with any or all of you.
remain safe,
Grandma Jennie