Patriot Guard Riders

Patriots, it is with a heavy heart, I inform you that America has lost another hero.

2LT Patrick D. Wells, 69 U.S. Army, Vietnam Veteran, peacefully passed away June 15th, 2016, While surrounded by his loving family.

The family of 2LT Wells has requested the Patriot Guard Riders to stand tall and silent for their loved one and provide an escort to QNC and it is with the Greatest Honor, we will do so!

2LT Patrick D. Wells served his Country Honorably in the US Army, serving in Vietnam with the 101st Airborne Division as part of America’s “Screaming Eagles!” He proudly served in the 101st from 1969 to 1971 and then in the Army Reserves until 1975. He was awarded the Bronze Star, the Vietnam Gallantry Cross, Vietnam Campaign Medal and Army Commendation Medal for his service. After leaving the Army, Patrick became a physical education teacher in 1971 at Mt. Eagle Elementary School in Alexandria, VA, a position he held for 30 years until he retired in 2001. The gymnasium at Mt. Eagle was named in his honor in 1986.

Patrick leaves behind his cherished, devoted wife of 44 years, Nancy, and his three children, as well as seven grandchildren. He is also survived by three sisters and two brothers and several nieces and nephews.

We have the distinct honor of Standing and escorting this hero as he once stood for us. The PGR has been graciously invited to escort 2LT Patrick D. Wells on his final journey from Sacred Heart Catholic Church in Manassas to his Final Resting Place at Quantico National Cemetery, Triangle, VA. At QNC, we will stand a flag line at his Service, and it is with great Honor that we will do so.

Mission Details: Thursday, June 23, 2016

1000 Muster at Sacred Heart Catholic Church, 12975 Purcell Rd, Manassas, VA 20112

1015 Safety Brief

1030 Set Flag Line

1110 Secure Flag Line

*1145-1200 KSU- (*End of Church Service)

1300 Set Flag Line at Quantico National Cemetery (Shelter TBD)

1345 Secure Flag Line, Mission Debrief.

Flags WILL be provided by Tom Lacey.

Ride Captain:
Steve Payne
cspayne@comcast.net
703-283-1211

Military mandated ID / gear IS NOT required for this mission.

Weather will be overcast with temps in the high 80’s with a 50% chance of rain, so dress & hydrate accordingly

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.