Patriot Guard Riders

It is with a heavy heart that I inform you that America has lost another of its heroes.

The family of Reverend Ferguson has graciously invited the Patriot Guard Riders to stand tall and silent, at an Inurnment with Military Honors service to show honor and respect for his service and dedication to our Country.

Rev. Michael B. “Mike” Ferguson, 77, passed away peacefully on June 11, 2016. He retired as a Captain after 30 years of Naval service as a Surface Warfare Officer. During his career he served on board six ships commanding USS COOK (FF 1083). Ashore, he commanded Naval Station Pearl Harbor, served on major staffs, and completed three tours in the Pentagon. He served as a logistics specialist for the Navy during the latter stages of the war in Vietnam.

Following his retirement, he answered God’s call, entered Virginia Theological Seminary in Alexandria and graduated with a Master of Divinity degree in 1993. He was ordained a Deacon in the Episcopal Church on June 12, 1993 and a Priest on December 18, 1993. During his 17-year career he ministered with three congregations: St. Anne’s Mililani, Hawaii; St. Anne’s Appomattox, Virginia; and he was serving as the co-Pastor at the Church of the Holy Apostles Episcopal/Roman Catholic Church in Virginia Beach at the time of his death.

He is survived by his wife of 57 years, Carolyn; his children and their families; 3 grandchildren and cousins and nephews. He was predeceased by a brother.

Military Honors will be rendered during this ceremony.

Mission Details:
This will be a flag line only – flags will be provided but please bring your 3’x5’ American flag in case it is needed.

Location:
Stage: NLT Airport Sheetz 14480 Wards Rd Lynchburg, VA 24501 (on 29S) at 0800
KSU 0815
Brief: 0900 Sharp St. Anne’s Episcopal Church, 415 Oakleigh Ave., Appomattox, VA 24522

Set Flag Line: 0930 (9:30 AM) for arrival of family members.

This mission is expected to last 2 hours.

Anyone wishing additional information concerning this Mission, Please contact the LISTED Ride Captains ONLY.

Ride Captain: Jim Tennant 434-851-1861 jackalope96@aol.com
CO-RC Tim “Flags” Mitchell 757-408-1221 tim.mitchell3@verizon.net
Co-RC: Rick “Cheng” Leighton 757-567-2711 btuengr@yahoo.com

Please monitor the weather forecast as the mission date approaches and dress appropriately. Keep hydrated.

SPECIAL　NOTE: Safety is of our utmost priority. Every effort possible in planning and executing the PGR MISSION Statement in a manner that minimizes the inherit dangers of riding a motorcycle, including riding in groups of all sizes and any situation. While the PGR and its riders have a remarkable safety record in the execution of our missions, infrequently members have been injured in unforeseen accidents. In an effort to mitigate the risk of preventable accidents, all attendees who wish to ride in a Patriot Guard motorcycle escort or ride are asked to attend the pre-mission briefing. It will include a safety briefing and any unique ride information known to our RC that may be specific to the mission. Member safety and well- being is always a principal ongoing concern. Our RC’s are asked to stand down from any mission that cannot be accomplished in relative safety or unreasonable risk. This includes both rides and flag lines in inclement weather and conditions. It remains each individual PGR member’s responsibility to ride within their own comfort zone and be cognizant of their surroundings and skill limitations as well as any physical needs or limitations. If the ride and/or mission conditions present challenges beyond your skill, comfort, or needs you are expected to exercise good judgment in foregoing any planned participation.