Patriot Guard Riders - Tilted Forum Project Discussion Community

ngdawg · 11-17-2005, 05:07 PM

There is a fanatic Baptist minister in the midwest, whose name I will not publicize *cough*fredphelpsasshole*cough*. He and his sicko followers go to fallen soldiers funerals to protest their 'traitordom'.
Patriot Guard Riders is a group of motorcycle enthusiasts, some veterans, some just patriotic and caring, who attend these funerals to stand guard against these protestors.
I had two reactions when I saw this site: 1) Total and utter disgust for these
jerks that dare to go to the funerals of fallen heroes to spew their narrow-minded crap and 2) Pride in what the Patriot Guard is doing so selflessly-protecting the families during their time of grief.
Their numbers are growing, primarily in the midwest, but there are some members on both coasts.
Where the discussion for this is supposed to lead, beats me....but when I see something good come to counter something disgustingly awful, I think it's worthy of spreading the word.
This is one idea I hope continues to spread.
Patriot Guard

tecoyah · 11-18-2005, 04:27 AM

My faith in Humanity is....somewhat restored

sailor · 11-18-2005, 04:38 AM

Seems like these guys have their heads screwed on straight. At first I thought it was going to be a bunch of crazy Bush fans, but they seem to be very neutral. I respect that, and what they are doing. It's a good thing--and yeah, Fred Phelps is a nutcase.

ngdawg · 12-05-2005, 10:37 PM

I'm bringing this back up because of the holidays. PGR is having a toy drive for the children of fallen servicemen. If you would like to help out, pm me and I will get the information to you or you can visit the site to find out who is your state PGR captain and contact him or her. Not all states are represented, but there's quite a few.

Toaster126 · 12-06-2005, 06:03 AM

Fred Phelps and his peeps protested my high school's graduation ceremony. I think I can respect anything that is fighting him. Thanks for the heads up.

raeanna74 · 12-06-2005, 06:13 AM

I was raised Baptist. The diehard followers can be quite unforgiving. This is extreme even for the diehards that I knew. I'm disgusted that they'd choose such a painful time to voice their complaints. Like the families of fallen veterans could do anything about the situation now? The protestors are doing this only for causing more pain and getting attention, and they will accomplish nothing more than making people from both sides disgusted. A funeral in any religion is a sacred affair, not to be messed with.

I'm glad to hear of the Patriot Riders. I wish them the best.

Mantus · 12-06-2005, 07:44 AM

That's a great cause. I think the 60's really messed up our concepts of group mentality, seems almost everyone believes that when people get together they gota "rebel" against something. Wish more people found such constructive ways to bond. Good find ngdawg.

xepherys · 12-06-2005, 08:43 AM

These assclowns protested the funeral of a soldier my wife knew from back in Wisconsin (the brother of one of her friends). If anybody I served with had these people there, I think I'd lose it. I mean, I don't believe in violence, generally, to solve such a problem... but I think my emotions would get the best of me.

ngdawg · 12-11-2005, 09:59 AM

I've been asked to pass along this essay and do so with pride. Thanks, Phedup and fellow Patriot Guard Riders.

An author once wrote "Today our public worlds demand a few good people who can walk among the masses and negotiate with the powerful but never change, never capitulate, never compromise" After meeting and spending time with Lee "Rough Rider" Lash, I believe he may well be one of those people.

The alarm went off at 5:00 am but I'd been awake since 3:00. The sleep I'd had was troubled, I kept dreaming of bright, multicolored signs and little girls trampling on flags in the snow. As I layed there, I had doubts as to my purpose.
"It's going to be cold" I thought. Then I remembered the 101st at Bastogne. "Yeah, but I'm so tired" I told myself. Then I remembered those at Battan. "Lee's all over this, everything is ready and complete and there's no reason for me to go" I tried to reason. "Yeah, but the last post you made last night was that you were going" I reminded my frazzled pscyche. Then a strange thing happened. A voice I hadn't heard in 20 some odd years barked "You owe the respect of those who have fallen. You owe all you have to those and others like them." Nuff said. Thanks Boats. Thanks Lynn.

The sun broke the horizon about the time I hit Columbia. I could see that the foot of snow we'd gotten in Kansas City two days before, was not relinquishing it's blanket as I chased the sum. The dawn was cold and bright and brought with it a sense of purpose, and an underlying feeling of sheer terror. My mind raced faster than the little PT rolling east, a mixture of light and sound, words and voices, thoughts and re-thoughts. People that hadn't spoken to me in years kept barking welcomed orders in my mind: "Military bearing, sailor!" "Pop-tall!!" "We are more as a unit than we are alone" and a host of other commands meant to keep my torn emotions at bay. Those that know me, know I am an emotional person. I'm either way up, or way down. There simply is no in-between. I was terrified that I, one of those chosen to provide management, organization and order, at the most inoportune time, would simply fly into a rage and rip someone's head off, and sh*t down their neck.

I rolled into St. Louis on schedule and found the Rough Rider right where he said he'd be. You know when you meet a guy, and you just know the handshake is going to be strong and true? Ayuh... virtual vice grip baby...

At 9:30 am on the dot, we were once again pointed east. We picked up the pick-up (heh) with the "God Bless SSG Harper" sandwich-board sign in the back, along with big al 66, and then once again were rolling north and east. You can tell Illinois is in America's heartland. Gently rolling fields as far as they eye could see, gently covered in layers of pristine white, sleeping, in preparation for springs plantings, and the renewal of life that comes with the season.

We reached the staging point in Virden right on time. There were about 30 to 40 people there already. There was coffee inside, and I believe there were few who failed to take advantage of the hospitality. Lee and I went ahead to recon the staging area. Lee had the Patriot Guard banner in the window of his truck, and as we pulled up we were surrounded by LEO's eager to meet and speak with us. As we conversed I could see the look of disgust on the LEO's faces and I could simply feel the displeasure at their task radiating off of them like some inner heat source. By this time I was as nervous as a long-tailed cat in a room full of rocking chairs, and sensing the same emotions I was battling emanating from the LEO's gave me an idea that I might be normal after all. The gentleman Lee was talking to got us all lined out as to the particulars of the event, and we regressed to the staging location.

Promptly at 12:30, have I mention Lee was thorough? We all lined up for the convoy to the funeral home, Lee in front with the PGR banner, the pick-up with the "God Bless SSG Harper" sign second, then the truck with the PGR flags on each side, which I now know was ivetret and her husband. There were already many people there and they parted like a sea of black, gray, and denim as we began staging in the appointed positions. A flurry of activity was unleashed as people with an obvious purpose began emerging from what were seemingly everywhere, unfurling flags and signs and polls. Soon the entire area was awash in color, American flags, Marine Corps flags, all whipping in the wind, sound and color assaulting the senses. I asked a gentleman next to me to hold my flag so I could take some pics, and the reply was "I'd be honored to". I just about cried right there. I have mentioned I'm a tad emotional haven't I? I believe, that gentleman was CG from Quincy, but I'm not sure. My appologies if I'm in error in my reckoning. I shot some pics, which I'll have up later, and returned to the crowd watching, to study the event that was unfolding around me. For those that weren't there, it was simply amazing. The cages kept coming. And coming. Flags and people. People and flags. By the time the fleas made their landing, the area was full, with what I estimate to be, well over 300 obvious bikers and Veterans. ICVMC, OMC, ISMC VVRMC and a host of other MC's that I don't know the acronyms for.

The troll's showed up on time as is their modus operandi, and quickly commenced their chosen activities. Those of us closest to the line of trolls, were engrossed in the side-show presentation. Then a wonderful and brilliant thing happened. The Rough Rider stepped back and called the company to attention. As ONE, as many as I could see became ramrod straight and focused. Then Rough Rider yelled in the cold, crisp air, "ABOUT FACE". Repeatedly, as ONE, snow, mud, ice and all, some of the crispest about faces I have ever seen were executed. I've never been more proud to be part of an event. One part of the mission ride soon gained strenght, with what I can only describe as "dueling scriptures" as Jim, I believe was the young mans name, yelling the True Word of Christ, and the trolls countering with their abominations of the same. Periodically, those who had simply had too much, would yell back a reply at something uttered by the trolls, which was simply too bizarre or obtuse to leave unrequited.

As I studied those around me and met the eyes of the strong willed men and women around me, I saw the same look returned. The same look I knew I was showing. Anger. Anger so strong, it flushed the faces of the Veterans and bikers around me. The color was strong in these men, even though the air was bitterly cold in the wind. I also noticed that most of the crowd in attendance, from the Vets, to the bikers, and including myself were shaking. I personally don't think it was due to the cold. But also, there was another look I saw. Deeper, past the obvious and totally pure anger. A look of pain. Pain and sadness. How could this be? How could these people do this? Don't they realize that this person DIED so that they could present this abomination to God and Country?!?!?! I could feel the overwhelming pain from the Vietnam Veterans as the faces of the friends lost in that Godforsaken war washed through their minds like some sort of macabre movie that can't be shut off. I'm sorry, I cry as I type this and I can't help it, I have to get it out. I also cry out these feelings for the many I know who won't, or can't.

At this point I think I became somewhat detatched. I felt as if I myself was watching some kind of freakish movie being made. A cast of characters kept moving in and out of frame. Close-ups and pan shots, all moving in a dizzying display. I do know remember when someone from the family would show up. The crowd all cheered and it was if the ground shook. I was concious of when several members of what I believe was part of SSGT Harpers unit arrived. The ground shook again. I was aware of the 21 gun salute. I saw the formation and knew it was coming and the first round of rifle fire still made me jump. I couldn't hear Taps being played and I was glad. I knew If I had, I would have been reduced to a blubbering idiot. Taps was sounded by a lone bugler at my fathers funeral. He was at the Bulge and on the Maginot line. I lost it then and I lose everytime I hear Taps now.

The trolls packed up and left at the appointed time, just like when they arrived. It's obviously a well-rehearsed routine. There were a number of one-finger salutes as the van they were in filed past the gathering of the civilized. The crowd began to disperse at that point. I think it was about this time that I came somewhat back to reality. I had the presence of mind to start snapping pics of all the different patch wearers. The diversity in the collection of Patriots was amazing. I did mention like, 300 people right? Ok. Lee made an amouncement to the group that we were invited by the family to attend the service and where and how to enter and where they wanted us to sit. I knew I wouldn't be able to handle the service, I can relate CJ.

I had wanted to touch base with Lee again, but I needed to get on. I had a 4 1/2 hour ride home. The family had invited those who wanted to go, to the reception. The Iron Sleds MC invited those who wanted to, to a drink back at the club house. I was personally invited by one of the ISMC members and considered it an honor but I knew I had no business drinking and driving. I also knew I was already pushing it. My health isn't the greatest and I knew I still had over 300 miles to cover.

Personally, I feel this mission ride was more than a success. It was a monumental representation of what can happen when good comes together against evil. There were several reporters running around at a feverish pace. I remember several different news teams, cameras and reportes et all. I made the cardinal sin of forgetting pen and pad, so any exact reporting is my failing.

I know this is too long and I apologize, but it's been a catharsis for me getting it out. I'd like to give a shout out to HDDragon (awesome lady) Big Al 66 (show has a brother in the sandbox as I type) and Big Guy and Rough Rider. It's good to put faces with forum names. On the flip side, I need to apologize to ivetret and CG and other forum members who were there for not introducing myself. It was Lee's gig and I was trying to remain unobtrusive.

I could go on about the feelings I experienced and thoughts I had, a traversal of the entire emotional spectrum on the 300+ miles home but I won't. Heh, you thought I was going to go on forever huh?

Humbly submitted by a faithful PGR servant,

phedup

Seaver · 12-12-2005, 01:47 PM

A buddy of mine was sent home after being wounded. A Marine, his job for the next few weeks was to attend Marine Funerals around Texas.

There was a mass anti-war protest just down the street from where a funeral was about to commense. They were being EXTREMELY loud, and calling the American soldiers murderurs/etc. He said that he, and the 15 or so Marines in full dress blues walked right up to the front of the protest and politely asked them to move their protest out of respect. They refused and a bunch screamed "facist" and other words at them.

At this point in time a biker gang happened to be roaming through, and a couple of them were jarheads themselves. Riding up to them, they started talking. So in return the bikers circled up around the protesters, revved their engines as loud as possible, and rode continuous circles around them.

They eventually drove the protesters off, and were invited to the funeral services by the family in return. One of them even pulled out a tattered flag from his saddle-sack and presented it (properly folded) to the mother. He explained he's carried that flag from his base in S. Vietnam, and that she deserved it more for her sons sacrifice.

Just think, biker gangs used to be the bad guys...

Poppinjay · 12-12-2005, 02:02 PM

Fred Phelps is weird. It's not just that he's a nut, there's something else going on there. He was a big supporter of Gore in 1988. He protests basically any newspaper because he thinks all the media caters to gay people.

And yet, when I worked at an NPR radio station in Kansas, I picked up the phone one day, and it was his wife offering us a donation. They apparently were long time donors. We not only carried NPR, which is gay friendly, we had a gay employee.

ngdawg · 12-12-2005, 10:16 PM

Quote:

Originally Posted by Seaver

A buddy of mine was sent home after being wounded. A Marine, his job for the next few weeks was to attend Marine Funerals around Texas.

There was a mass anti-war protest just down the street from where a funeral was about to commense. They were being EXTREMELY loud, and calling the American soldiers murderurs/etc. He said that he, and the 15 or so Marines in full dress blues walked right up to the front of the protest and politely asked them to move their protest out of respect. They refused and a bunch screamed "facist" and other words at them.

At this point in time a biker gang happened to be roaming through, and a couple of them were jarheads themselves. Riding up to them, they started talking. So in return the bikers circled up around the protesters, revved their engines as loud as possible, and rode continuous circles around them.

They eventually drove the protesters off, and were invited to the funeral services by the family in return. One of them even pulled out a tattered flag from his saddle-sack and presented it (properly folded) to the mother. He explained he's carried that flag from his base in S. Vietnam, and that she deserved it more for her sons sacrifice.

Just think, biker gangs used to be the bad guys...

They very well could have been PGR members.
While there are certainly bike clubs that are known for their hellacious, underground, lawbreaking histories, they're not the majority. (the old adage about the worst getting the most publicity is true) Fact of the matter is, some, if not a great deal of those rough-looking dudes on hogs were vets, and the vast majority are law-abiding patriots with hearts of gold.
That display must have been wonderful.

ngdawg · 02-21-2006, 10:40 AM

Guess now the PGR will have some legitimacy with the 18-34 demographics. This from Fark:
February 20, 2006

Bikers drown out funeral protesters

By Ryan Lenz
Associated Press

FORT CAMPBELL, Ky. — Wearing leather chaps and vests covered in military patches, a band of motorcyclists rolls from one soldier’s funeral to another in hopes their respectful cheers and revving engines will drown out the insults of protesters.

The motorcycle club members calling themselves Patriot Guard Riders are trying to shield mourners from cruel jeers by adherents of a tiny fundamentalist church who picket military funerals to reflect their belief that U.S. combat deaths are a sign God is punishing the United States for harboring homosexuals. Some protesters’ signs said, “Thank God for IEDs,” the improvised explosive devices, or homemade bombs, that kill many U.S. soldiers.

“The most important thing we can do is let families know that the nation cares,” said Don Woodrick, the biker group’s Kentucky captain. “When a total stranger gets on a motorcycle in the middle of winter and drives 300 miles to hold a flag, that makes a powerful statement.”

Across the nation, Patriot Guard Riders number more than 5,000. They show up at soldiers’ funerals to chant patriotic slogans and wave red, white and blue flags in hopes of overshadowing backers of a Kansas clergyman named the Rev. Fred Phelps.

Phelps and members of his Westboro Baptist Church have caused such a fuss that at least 14 states are considering laws aimed at the funeral protests. During the 1990s, church members were known mostly for picketing funerals of AIDS victims, and they have long been tracked as a hate group by the Southern Poverty Law Center’s Intelligence Project in Montgomery, Alabama.

The project’s deputy director, Heidi Beirich, said other groups have tried to counter Phelps’ message, but none have been as organized as the Patriot Guard.

“I’m not sure anybody has gone to this length to stand in solidarity,” she said. “It’s nice that these veterans and their supporters are trying to do something. I can’t imagine anything worse, your loved one is killed in Iraq and you’ve got to deal with Fred Phelps.”

At a recent memorial service at Fort Campbell, church protesters and sang vulgar songs condemning homosexuals and soldiers. The Patriot Guard was also there, cheering to support mourning families across the street as community members came in a freezing rain to chant “U-S-A, U-S-A” alongside the bikers.

“This is just the right thing to do. This is something America didn’t do in the ’70s,” said Kurt Mayer, the Patriot Guard’s national spokesman, referring to the era when protests against the Vietnam war were common. “Whether we agree with why we’re over there, these soldiers are dying to protect our freedoms.”

Shirley Phelps-Roper, a daughter of Fred Phelps and an attorney for the Topeka, Kansas-based church, said neither state laws nor the Patriot Guard can silence their message that God killed the soldiers because they fought for a country that embraces homosexuals.

“The scriptures are crystal clear that when God sets out to punish a nation, it is with the sword. An IED is just a broken-up sword,” Phelps-Roper said. “Since that is his weapon of choice, our forum of choice has got to be a dead soldier’s funeral.”

The church, which is not affiliated with a larger denomination, is made up mostly of Phelps’ extended family. A small group of them appeared last month in West Virginia outside a memorial for the 12 men killed in the Sago Mine disaster. They held signs reading “Thank God for Dead Miners” and “Miners in Hell.”

Kentucky, home to sprawling Fort Campbell, was among the first states to attempt to deal with Phelps legislatively. Its House and Senate have each passed bills that would limit people from protesting within 300 feet of a funeral or memorial service. The Senate version would also keep protesters from being within earshot of grieving friends and family members.

The Indiana Senate has passed a bill intended to prohibit protests within 500 feet (150 meters) of funerals. The House is considering the measure.

The bills were written to protect families of soldiers such as Pvt. Jonathan R. Pfender, 22, of Evansville, Indiana, a soldier from Fort Campbell’s 101st Airborne Division who was killed in January by a roadside bomb in Beiji, Iraq.

Westboro church members protested at Pfender’s funeral, screaming profanities at mourners as they passed. Family members were shielded from the insults by the rumble of Patriot Guard motorcycles.

“We were glad that the Patriot Guard Riders were there,” said Jackie Pfender, the soldier’s stepmother. “This group of protesters wanted to put something negative on Jonathan’s funeral. In actuality, it became a positive thing because of the support we had.”

Patriot Guard members only show up at funerals if invited by family. Richard Wilbur, a retired police detective, said his Indiana Patriot Guard group came to the Pfender funeral at the family’s request after protesters announced they planned to attend.

“No one deserves this,” Wilbur said. “If I were burying my loved one and they were out there yelling anything close to what they yell to the families of these soldiers, I know my temperament. I probably would not handle it very well.”

Copyright 2006 The Associated Press. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten or redistributed.

ngdawg · 02-21-2006, 11:27 AM

Might be coincidence but then again, maybe because of Fark, anyone trying to reach PGR will get this instead:
Yes…we are all aware of it. We are experiencing severe growing pains. The traffic to the PGR website has virtually quadrupled in the past 3 hours. The servers cannot keep up with it. These are good things, believe it or not.
Nice to know that some GOOD sites get over run with interest too.

maleficent · 02-21-2006, 12:15 PM

Quote:

Originally Posted by ngdawg

Guess now the PGR will have some legitimacy with the 18-34 demographics. This from Fark:
February 20, 2006
.

same story has been on cnn.com all day..

Sweetpea · 02-21-2006, 12:35 PM

wow. that is really powerful. i'm tearing up...
thank you phedup for sharing your experience.

A big Thank you to the Patriot Guard Riders for being there for those who most need it.

It strengthens me to know there are still people who stand up for what's right.

sweetpea

Ustwo · 02-21-2006, 12:46 PM

I'm confused.

Were these gay soldiers or is he protesting something else this time?

Seaver · 02-21-2006, 03:43 PM

He's protesting because the soldiers kill therefore supporting the terrorists is ok.

ngdawg · 02-21-2006, 03:45 PM

Quote:

Originally Posted by Ustwo

I'm confused.

Were these gay soldiers or is he protesting something else this time?

No, he is 'protesting'....nothing, really. He's just full of hot air

NeoRete · 02-21-2006, 07:36 PM

Quote:

Originally Posted by Ustwo

I'm confused.
Were these gay soldiers or is he protesting something else this time?

No, the soldiers weren't gay. From http://www.armytimes.com/story.php?f...25-1546852.php

Quote:

Shirley Phelps-Roper, a daughter of Fred Phelps and an attorney for the Topeka, Kansas-based church, said neither state laws nor the Patriot Guard can silence their message that God killed the soldiers because they fought for a country that embraces homosexuals.

“The scriptures are crystal clear that when God sets out to punish a nation, it is with the sword. An IED is just a broken-up sword,” Phelps-Roper said. “Since that is his weapon of choice, our forum of choice has got to be a dead soldier’s funeral.”

There is quite an iteresting (disturbing) wiki about Phelps at http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Fred_Phelps
Long story short, these protests are a twisted way for him to maintain control of his "church" composed of a core of family members. The more his "cause" is ostracized, the more control he gains (as his group is further pushed into a cult status).

The Patriot Guard Riders are smart heroes in my book by using their own First Amendment rights to overwhelm the protests of Phelps. There is a time and a place for protesting, although it is within the rights of Phelps' followers, funerals should not be the place.

OPgary · 02-22-2006, 05:09 PM

[B]Fred Phelps and family is so worried about homosexuals. I wonder if he is surpressing a homosexual tendency himself? Just wondering..

ngdawg · 02-22-2006, 05:55 PM

This has got to be some sort of internet record. As of 8:43 this evening, PGR's new membership for ONE day is 1,030!
They began in November and membership total is now 8,275!!! Does a heart good that so many care.

Poppinjay · 02-23-2006, 07:20 AM

I’m all for anything that intimidates Fred Phelps and his band of loonies.

That said, it would have been nice if the Patriot Guard had organized when Phelps protested Matthew Sheppard’s funeral or when he protested Maya Angelou’s appearance at Emporia State, which caused her to cancel said appearance. The reason he protested? She probably knows gay people and doesn’t rebuke their lifetstyle.

Bill O'Rights · 02-23-2006, 09:52 AM

Quote:

Originally Posted by OPgary

Fred Phelps and family is so worried about homosexuals. I wonder if he is surpressing a homosexual tendency himself? Just wondering..

I've wondered the exact same thing, myself.

I first heard of the Patriot Guard Riders last...what? December, it must have been. There was a write up about them in my American Legion magazine. There is an offshoot of the Legion, called The American Legion Riders. 100% recognized, and supported by the American Legion. Someone (I can't recall the name), in the ALR, got the idea to start protecting the grieving families, of fallen soldiers, from Freddy boy, and his merry band of misbegotten misfits. Although the American Legion rallies behind the concept, they cannot endorse the American Legion Riders in their participation, because should anything get out of hand and *ahem* "happen", then the American Legion becomes liable. (Basically Commander Bock didn't want a picture of someone with an American Legion logo on their back, punching Fred in the nose, to end up on the AP) So...the Patriot Guard Riders were formed. And I, for one, don't think that these men can be thanked enough.

rockogre · 03-06-2006, 02:29 PM

Sorry I wasn't paying attention the last few months. This rugged looking old biker is a vet and a patriot till death. I believe in freedom of religion and freedom of speech, but it stops when you disrespect anyone, not just vets, in this manner. The Patriot Riders have been in Oklahoma and I intend to help every time I can get there. Like everything I do, joining will take some thought, but they seem like as good a group of folks as I could ask for. We all need to stand up against this kind of ignorant crap!

WillyPete · 03-06-2006, 02:57 PM

Quote:

Originally Posted by ngdawg

No, he is 'protesting'....nothing, really. He's just full of hot air

No, he's full of something else a bit more solid.

rockogre · 03-08-2006, 11:45 AM

I am now a member!

maleficent · 03-08-2006, 11:48 AM

Quote:

Originally Posted by rockogre

I am now a member!

That's totally awesome...

Bill O'Rights · 03-08-2006, 12:58 PM

Quote:

Originally Posted by rockogre

I am now a member!

You, Sir, have my respect.

I'd salute, but I can't find a smiley for that.

No small feat for a Navy guy.

Now, go give Fred a snoot full of exhaust fumes for me.

rockogre · 03-09-2006, 06:37 AM

Just how my life goes. I get off my lazy old butt and try to accumulate some good Karma and Oklahoma goes and makes it illegal to protest at funerals. Now the shallow end of the gene pool announced on the news this morning that they would respect this law and not protest here. Good news for our folks I guess. Well, I got Texas on two sides of me so I can always go there to help out.

Linkage

ngdawg · 03-09-2006, 06:53 AM

Rockogre-

Remember, it's not just about Fred, it's out of respect and gratitude. Families will continue to invite the Guard and its becoming quite a community as well. Thank you for joining.

rockogre · 03-09-2006, 09:04 AM

Thanks ng. I was just mostly updating the thread about the law in Oklahoma. I remember friends of mine that were in Vietnam, through no wish of their own, being spit at and called names by beings of a lower class, and I will always stand against anyone that thinks they have some right to do that.

Protest to your government, write your congressman, jump up and down on your soapbox, but absolutley do not blame those that served your government. YOU are the damn government! I'll ride with guys like this anytime.

Sorry, almost got a rant going there. And, well, it's just funny sometimes how Kharma works. It's a shame that we had to pass a law regarding funerals in our state.

And thanks for the near salute Bill 'O'.

rockogre · 04-17-2006, 09:32 AM

I rode in my first formation with the Patriot Guard this past Saturday. It was to honor this missing veteran.

--------------------------------------------------------------------------

Air Force Sergeant MIA from Vietnam War is Identified

The Department of Defense POW/Missing Personnel Office (DPMO) announced today that the remains of a U.S. serviceman, missing in action from the Vietnam War, have been identified and will be returned to his family for burial with full military honors.

He is Tech. Sgt. Patrick L. Shannon of Owasso, Okla. Funeral arrangements are yet to be set by his family.

Shannon and 18 other servicemen operated a radar installation atop Pha Thi Mountain in Houaphan Province, Laos, approximately 13 miles south of the border with North Vietnam. The site, known at Lima Site 85, directed U.S. bombing missions toward key targets in North Vietnam.

In the early morning of March 11, 1968, the site came under attack by a force of North Vietnamese commandos. The enemy force had scaled the sheer mountainsides in the hours before the attack and overran the site. During the attack, some Americans made their way down to ledges, but survivors reported that several were killed.

Several hours later, U.S. aircraft attacked enemy positions around the site, enabling helicopters to rescue eight of the 19 Americans, although one of the survivors died en route to a base in Thailand. Later that day, and for four additional days, U.S. air strikes bombed the site to destroy technical equipment left behind.

--------------------------------------------------------------------------

This took place in Oklahoma City Saturday morning. There were between 300 and 400 motorcycles participating and I was proud to be among them. It was a very moving experience, as was the full military funeral. I don't have any of my pictures posted yet you this link is to some of the pictures that were taken.

Pictures from the Patriot Guard

I met some of the nicest people I could ever hope to meet. I also took my 23 year old daughter and she said that she learned a lot about why I am proud to be a veteran and that she was proud that I let her participate.

For those of you that recognize it, my old orange Norton is in a couple of the pictures.

maleficent · 04-17-2006, 12:49 PM

thanks for sharing those pictures, rock... what a nice thing you did participating. What a lovely service...

ngdawg · 04-17-2006, 01:36 PM

Rockogre

11-17-2005, 05:07 PM	#1 (permalink)
ngdawg peekaboo Location: on the back, bitch	Patriot Guard Riders There is a fanatic Baptist minister in the midwest, whose name I will not publicize coughfredphelpsassholecough. He and his sicko followers go to fallen soldiers funerals to protest their 'traitordom'. Patriot Guard Riders is a group of motorcycle enthusiasts, some veterans, some just patriotic and caring, who attend these funerals to stand guard against these protestors. I had two reactions when I saw this site: 1) Total and utter disgust for these jerks that dare to go to the funerals of fallen heroes to spew their narrow-minded crap and 2) Pride in what the Patriot Guard is doing so selflessly-protecting the families during their time of grief. Their numbers are growing, primarily in the midwest, but there are some members on both coasts. Where the discussion for this is supposed to lead, beats me....but when I see something good come to counter something disgustingly awful, I think it's worthy of spreading the word. This is one idea I hope continues to spread. Patriot Guard __________________ Don't blame me. I didn't vote for either of'em. Last edited by ngdawg; 11-17-2005 at 05:11 PM..

11-18-2005, 04:27 AM	#2 (permalink)
tecoyah Illusionary	My faith in Humanity is....somewhat restored __________________ Holding onto anger is like grasping a hot coal with the intent of throwing it at someone else; you are the one who gets burned. - Buddha

11-18-2005, 04:38 AM	#3 (permalink)
sailor beauty in the breakdown Location: Chapel Hill, NC	Seems like these guys have their heads screwed on straight. At first I thought it was going to be a bunch of crazy Bush fans, but they seem to be very neutral. I respect that, and what they are doing. It's a good thing--and yeah, Fred Phelps is a nutcase. __________________ "Good people do not need laws to tell them to act responsibly, while bad people will find a way around the laws." --Plato

12-05-2005, 10:37 PM	#4 (permalink)
ngdawg peekaboo Location: on the back, bitch	I'm bringing this back up because of the holidays. PGR is having a toy drive for the children of fallen servicemen. If you would like to help out, pm me and I will get the information to you or you can visit the site to find out who is your state PGR captain and contact him or her. Not all states are represented, but there's quite a few. __________________ Don't blame me. I didn't vote for either of'em.

12-06-2005, 06:03 AM	#5 (permalink)
Toaster126 Extreme moderation Location: Kansas City, yo.	Fred Phelps and his peeps protested my high school's graduation ceremony. I think I can respect anything that is fighting him. Thanks for the heads up. __________________ "The question isn't who is going to let me, it's who is going to stop me." (Ayn Rand) "The truth is that our finest moments are most likely to occur when we are feeling deeply uncomfortable, unhappy, or unfulfilled. For it is only in such moments, propelled by our discomfort, that we are likely to step out of our ruts and start searching for different ways or truer answers." (M. Scott Peck)

12-06-2005, 06:13 AM	#6 (permalink)
raeanna74 I'm not a blonde! I'm knot! I'm knot! I'm knot! Location: Upper Michigan	I was raised Baptist. The diehard followers can be quite unforgiving. This is extreme even for the diehards that I knew. I'm disgusted that they'd choose such a painful time to voice their complaints. Like the families of fallen veterans could do anything about the situation now? The protestors are doing this only for causing more pain and getting attention, and they will accomplish nothing more than making people from both sides disgusted. A funeral in any religion is a sacred affair, not to be messed with. I'm glad to hear of the Patriot Riders. I wish them the best. __________________ "Always learn the rules so that you can break them properly." Dalai Lama My Karma just ran over your Dogma.

12-06-2005, 07:44 AM	#7 (permalink)
Mantus lascivious	That's a great cause. I think the 60's really messed up our concepts of group mentality, seems almost everyone believes that when people get together they gota "rebel" against something. Wish more people found such constructive ways to bond. Good find ngdawg.

12-06-2005, 08:43 AM	#8 (permalink)
xepherys <3 TFP Location: 17TLH2445607250	These assclowns protested the funeral of a soldier my wife knew from back in Wisconsin (the brother of one of her friends). If anybody I served with had these people there, I think I'd lose it. I mean, I don't believe in violence, generally, to solve such a problem... but I think my emotions would get the best of me.

12-11-2005, 09:59 AM	#9 (permalink)
ngdawg peekaboo Location: on the back, bitch	I've been asked to pass along this essay and do so with pride. Thanks, Phedup and fellow Patriot Guard Riders. An author once wrote "Today our public worlds demand a few good people who can walk among the masses and negotiate with the powerful but never change, never capitulate, never compromise" After meeting and spending time with Lee "Rough Rider" Lash, I believe he may well be one of those people. The alarm went off at 5:00 am but I'd been awake since 3:00. The sleep I'd had was troubled, I kept dreaming of bright, multicolored signs and little girls trampling on flags in the snow. As I layed there, I had doubts as to my purpose. "It's going to be cold" I thought. Then I remembered the 101st at Bastogne. "Yeah, but I'm so tired" I told myself. Then I remembered those at Battan. "Lee's all over this, everything is ready and complete and there's no reason for me to go" I tried to reason. "Yeah, but the last post you made last night was that you were going" I reminded my frazzled pscyche. Then a strange thing happened. A voice I hadn't heard in 20 some odd years barked "You owe the respect of those who have fallen. You owe all you have to those and others like them." Nuff said. Thanks Boats. Thanks Lynn. The sun broke the horizon about the time I hit Columbia. I could see that the foot of snow we'd gotten in Kansas City two days before, was not relinquishing it's blanket as I chased the sum. The dawn was cold and bright and brought with it a sense of purpose, and an underlying feeling of sheer terror. My mind raced faster than the little PT rolling east, a mixture of light and sound, words and voices, thoughts and re-thoughts. People that hadn't spoken to me in years kept barking welcomed orders in my mind: "Military bearing, sailor!" "Pop-tall!!" "We are more as a unit than we are alone" and a host of other commands meant to keep my torn emotions at bay. Those that know me, know I am an emotional person. I'm either way up, or way down. There simply is no in-between. I was terrified that I, one of those chosen to provide management, organization and order, at the most inoportune time, would simply fly into a rage and rip someone's head off, and sh*t down their neck. I rolled into St. Louis on schedule and found the Rough Rider right where he said he'd be. You know when you meet a guy, and you just know the handshake is going to be strong and true? Ayuh... virtual vice grip baby... At 9:30 am on the dot, we were once again pointed east. We picked up the pick-up (heh) with the "God Bless SSG Harper" sandwich-board sign in the back, along with big al 66, and then once again were rolling north and east. You can tell Illinois is in America's heartland. Gently rolling fields as far as they eye could see, gently covered in layers of pristine white, sleeping, in preparation for springs plantings, and the renewal of life that comes with the season. We reached the staging point in Virden right on time. There were about 30 to 40 people there already. There was coffee inside, and I believe there were few who failed to take advantage of the hospitality. Lee and I went ahead to recon the staging area. Lee had the Patriot Guard banner in the window of his truck, and as we pulled up we were surrounded by LEO's eager to meet and speak with us. As we conversed I could see the look of disgust on the LEO's faces and I could simply feel the displeasure at their task radiating off of them like some inner heat source. By this time I was as nervous as a long-tailed cat in a room full of rocking chairs, and sensing the same emotions I was battling emanating from the LEO's gave me an idea that I might be normal after all. The gentleman Lee was talking to got us all lined out as to the particulars of the event, and we regressed to the staging location. Promptly at 12:30, have I mention Lee was thorough? We all lined up for the convoy to the funeral home, Lee in front with the PGR banner, the pick-up with the "God Bless SSG Harper" sign second, then the truck with the PGR flags on each side, which I now know was ivetret and her husband. There were already many people there and they parted like a sea of black, gray, and denim as we began staging in the appointed positions. A flurry of activity was unleashed as people with an obvious purpose began emerging from what were seemingly everywhere, unfurling flags and signs and polls. Soon the entire area was awash in color, American flags, Marine Corps flags, all whipping in the wind, sound and color assaulting the senses. I asked a gentleman next to me to hold my flag so I could take some pics, and the reply was "I'd be honored to". I just about cried right there. I have mentioned I'm a tad emotional haven't I? I believe, that gentleman was CG from Quincy, but I'm not sure. My appologies if I'm in error in my reckoning. I shot some pics, which I'll have up later, and returned to the crowd watching, to study the event that was unfolding around me. For those that weren't there, it was simply amazing. The cages kept coming. And coming. Flags and people. People and flags. By the time the fleas made their landing, the area was full, with what I estimate to be, well over 300 obvious bikers and Veterans. ICVMC, OMC, ISMC VVRMC and a host of other MC's that I don't know the acronyms for. The troll's showed up on time as is their modus operandi, and quickly commenced their chosen activities. Those of us closest to the line of trolls, were engrossed in the side-show presentation. Then a wonderful and brilliant thing happened. The Rough Rider stepped back and called the company to attention. As ONE, as many as I could see became ramrod straight and focused. Then Rough Rider yelled in the cold, crisp air, "ABOUT FACE". Repeatedly, as ONE, snow, mud, ice and all, some of the crispest about faces I have ever seen were executed. I've never been more proud to be part of an event. One part of the mission ride soon gained strenght, with what I can only describe as "dueling scriptures" as Jim, I believe was the young mans name, yelling the True Word of Christ, and the trolls countering with their abominations of the same. Periodically, those who had simply had too much, would yell back a reply at something uttered by the trolls, which was simply too bizarre or obtuse to leave unrequited. As I studied those around me and met the eyes of the strong willed men and women around me, I saw the same look returned. The same look I knew I was showing. Anger. Anger so strong, it flushed the faces of the Veterans and bikers around me. The color was strong in these men, even though the air was bitterly cold in the wind. I also noticed that most of the crowd in attendance, from the Vets, to the bikers, and including myself were shaking. I personally don't think it was due to the cold. But also, there was another look I saw. Deeper, past the obvious and totally pure anger. A look of pain. Pain and sadness. How could this be? How could these people do this? Don't they realize that this person DIED so that they could present this abomination to God and Country?!?!?! I could feel the overwhelming pain from the Vietnam Veterans as the faces of the friends lost in that Godforsaken war washed through their minds like some sort of macabre movie that can't be shut off. I'm sorry, I cry as I type this and I can't help it, I have to get it out. I also cry out these feelings for the many I know who won't, or can't. At this point I think I became somewhat detatched. I felt as if I myself was watching some kind of freakish movie being made. A cast of characters kept moving in and out of frame. Close-ups and pan shots, all moving in a dizzying display. I do know remember when someone from the family would show up. The crowd all cheered and it was if the ground shook. I was concious of when several members of what I believe was part of SSGT Harpers unit arrived. The ground shook again. I was aware of the 21 gun salute. I saw the formation and knew it was coming and the first round of rifle fire still made me jump. I couldn't hear Taps being played and I was glad. I knew If I had, I would have been reduced to a blubbering idiot. Taps was sounded by a lone bugler at my fathers funeral. He was at the Bulge and on the Maginot line. I lost it then and I lose everytime I hear Taps now. The trolls packed up and left at the appointed time, just like when they arrived. It's obviously a well-rehearsed routine. There were a number of one-finger salutes as the van they were in filed past the gathering of the civilized. The crowd began to disperse at that point. I think it was about this time that I came somewhat back to reality. I had the presence of mind to start snapping pics of all the different patch wearers. The diversity in the collection of Patriots was amazing. I did mention like, 300 people right? Ok. Lee made an amouncement to the group that we were invited by the family to attend the service and where and how to enter and where they wanted us to sit. I knew I wouldn't be able to handle the service, I can relate CJ. I had wanted to touch base with Lee again, but I needed to get on. I had a 4 1/2 hour ride home. The family had invited those who wanted to go, to the reception. The Iron Sleds MC invited those who wanted to, to a drink back at the club house. I was personally invited by one of the ISMC members and considered it an honor but I knew I had no business drinking and driving. I also knew I was already pushing it. My health isn't the greatest and I knew I still had over 300 miles to cover. Personally, I feel this mission ride was more than a success. It was a monumental representation of what can happen when good comes together against evil. There were several reporters running around at a feverish pace. I remember several different news teams, cameras and reportes et all. I made the cardinal sin of forgetting pen and pad, so any exact reporting is my failing. I know this is too long and I apologize, but it's been a catharsis for me getting it out. I'd like to give a shout out to HDDragon (awesome lady) Big Al 66 (show has a brother in the sandbox as I type) and Big Guy and Rough Rider. It's good to put faces with forum names. On the flip side, I need to apologize to ivetret and CG and other forum members who were there for not introducing myself. It was Lee's gig and I was trying to remain unobtrusive. I could go on about the feelings I experienced and thoughts I had, a traversal of the entire emotional spectrum on the 300+ miles home but I won't. Heh, you thought I was going to go on forever huh? Humbly submitted by a faithful PGR servant, phedup __________________ Don't blame me. I didn't vote for either of'em.

12-12-2005, 01:47 PM	#10 (permalink)
Seaver Junkie Location: Fort Worth, TX	A buddy of mine was sent home after being wounded. A Marine, his job for the next few weeks was to attend Marine Funerals around Texas. There was a mass anti-war protest just down the street from where a funeral was about to commense. They were being EXTREMELY loud, and calling the American soldiers murderurs/etc. He said that he, and the 15 or so Marines in full dress blues walked right up to the front of the protest and politely asked them to move their protest out of respect. They refused and a bunch screamed "facist" and other words at them. At this point in time a biker gang happened to be roaming through, and a couple of them were jarheads themselves. Riding up to them, they started talking. So in return the bikers circled up around the protesters, revved their engines as loud as possible, and rode continuous circles around them. They eventually drove the protesters off, and were invited to the funeral services by the family in return. One of them even pulled out a tattered flag from his saddle-sack and presented it (properly folded) to the mother. He explained he's carried that flag from his base in S. Vietnam, and that she deserved it more for her sons sacrifice. Just think, biker gangs used to be the bad guys...

12-12-2005, 02:02 PM	#11 (permalink)
Poppinjay You had me at hello Location: DC/Coastal VA	Fred Phelps is weird. It's not just that he's a nut, there's something else going on there. He was a big supporter of Gore in 1988. He protests basically any newspaper because he thinks all the media caters to gay people. And yet, when I worked at an NPR radio station in Kansas, I picked up the phone one day, and it was his wife offering us a donation. They apparently were long time donors. We not only carried NPR, which is gay friendly, we had a gay employee. __________________ I think the Apocalypse is happening all around us. We go on eating desserts and watching TV. I know I do. I wish we were more capable of sustained passion and sustained resistance. We should be screaming and what we do is gossip. -Lydia Millet

02-21-2006, 10:40 AM	#13 (permalink)
ngdawg peekaboo Location: on the back, bitch	Guess now the PGR will have some legitimacy with the 18-34 demographics. This from Fark: February 20, 2006 Bikers drown out funeral protesters By Ryan Lenz Associated Press FORT CAMPBELL, Ky. — Wearing leather chaps and vests covered in military patches, a band of motorcyclists rolls from one soldier’s funeral to another in hopes their respectful cheers and revving engines will drown out the insults of protesters. The motorcycle club members calling themselves Patriot Guard Riders are trying to shield mourners from cruel jeers by adherents of a tiny fundamentalist church who picket military funerals to reflect their belief that U.S. combat deaths are a sign God is punishing the United States for harboring homosexuals. Some protesters’ signs said, “Thank God for IEDs,” the improvised explosive devices, or homemade bombs, that kill many U.S. soldiers. “The most important thing we can do is let families know that the nation cares,” said Don Woodrick, the biker group’s Kentucky captain. “When a total stranger gets on a motorcycle in the middle of winter and drives 300 miles to hold a flag, that makes a powerful statement.” Across the nation, Patriot Guard Riders number more than 5,000. They show up at soldiers’ funerals to chant patriotic slogans and wave red, white and blue flags in hopes of overshadowing backers of a Kansas clergyman named the Rev. Fred Phelps. Phelps and members of his Westboro Baptist Church have caused such a fuss that at least 14 states are considering laws aimed at the funeral protests. During the 1990s, church members were known mostly for picketing funerals of AIDS victims, and they have long been tracked as a hate group by the Southern Poverty Law Center’s Intelligence Project in Montgomery, Alabama. The project’s deputy director, Heidi Beirich, said other groups have tried to counter Phelps’ message, but none have been as organized as the Patriot Guard. “I’m not sure anybody has gone to this length to stand in solidarity,” she said. “It’s nice that these veterans and their supporters are trying to do something. I can’t imagine anything worse, your loved one is killed in Iraq and you’ve got to deal with Fred Phelps.” At a recent memorial service at Fort Campbell, church protesters and sang vulgar songs condemning homosexuals and soldiers. The Patriot Guard was also there, cheering to support mourning families across the street as community members came in a freezing rain to chant “U-S-A, U-S-A” alongside the bikers. “This is just the right thing to do. This is something America didn’t do in the ’70s,” said Kurt Mayer, the Patriot Guard’s national spokesman, referring to the era when protests against the Vietnam war were common. “Whether we agree with why we’re over there, these soldiers are dying to protect our freedoms.” Shirley Phelps-Roper, a daughter of Fred Phelps and an attorney for the Topeka, Kansas-based church, said neither state laws nor the Patriot Guard can silence their message that God killed the soldiers because they fought for a country that embraces homosexuals. “The scriptures are crystal clear that when God sets out to punish a nation, it is with the sword. An IED is just a broken-up sword,” Phelps-Roper said. “Since that is his weapon of choice, our forum of choice has got to be a dead soldier’s funeral.” The church, which is not affiliated with a larger denomination, is made up mostly of Phelps’ extended family. A small group of them appeared last month in West Virginia outside a memorial for the 12 men killed in the Sago Mine disaster. They held signs reading “Thank God for Dead Miners” and “Miners in Hell.” Kentucky, home to sprawling Fort Campbell, was among the first states to attempt to deal with Phelps legislatively. Its House and Senate have each passed bills that would limit people from protesting within 300 feet of a funeral or memorial service. The Senate version would also keep protesters from being within earshot of grieving friends and family members. The Indiana Senate has passed a bill intended to prohibit protests within 500 feet (150 meters) of funerals. The House is considering the measure. The bills were written to protect families of soldiers such as Pvt. Jonathan R. Pfender, 22, of Evansville, Indiana, a soldier from Fort Campbell’s 101st Airborne Division who was killed in January by a roadside bomb in Beiji, Iraq. Westboro church members protested at Pfender’s funeral, screaming profanities at mourners as they passed. Family members were shielded from the insults by the rumble of Patriot Guard motorcycles. “We were glad that the Patriot Guard Riders were there,” said Jackie Pfender, the soldier’s stepmother. “This group of protesters wanted to put something negative on Jonathan’s funeral. In actuality, it became a positive thing because of the support we had.” Patriot Guard members only show up at funerals if invited by family. Richard Wilbur, a retired police detective, said his Indiana Patriot Guard group came to the Pfender funeral at the family’s request after protesters announced they planned to attend. “No one deserves this,” Wilbur said. “If I were burying my loved one and they were out there yelling anything close to what they yell to the families of these soldiers, I know my temperament. I probably would not handle it very well.” Copyright 2006 The Associated Press. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten or redistributed. __________________ Don't blame me. I didn't vote for either of'em.

02-21-2006, 11:27 AM	#14 (permalink)
ngdawg peekaboo Location: on the back, bitch	Might be coincidence but then again, maybe because of Fark, anyone trying to reach PGR will get this instead: Yes…we are all aware of it. We are experiencing severe growing pains. The traffic to the PGR website has virtually quadrupled in the past 3 hours. The servers cannot keep up with it. These are good things, believe it or not. Nice to know that some GOOD sites get over run with interest too. __________________ Don't blame me. I didn't vote for either of'em.

02-21-2006, 12:35 PM	#16 (permalink)
Sweetpea Fade out Location: in love	wow. that is really powerful. i'm tearing up... thank you phedup for sharing your experience. A big Thank you to the Patriot Guard Riders for being there for those who most need it. It strengthens me to know there are still people who stand up for what's right. sweetpea __________________ Having a Pet Will Change Your Life! Looking for a great pet?! Click Here! "I am the Type of Person Who Can Get Away With A lot, Simply Because I Don't Ask Permission for the Privilege of Being Myself"

02-21-2006, 12:46 PM	#17 (permalink)
Ustwo Pissing in the cornflakes	I'm confused. Were these gay soldiers or is he protesting something else this time? __________________ Agents of the enemies who hold office in our own government, who attempt to eliminate our "freedoms" and our "right to know" are posting among us, I fear.....on this very forum. - host Obama - Know a Man by the friends he keeps.

02-21-2006, 03:43 PM	#18 (permalink)
Seaver Junkie Location: Fort Worth, TX	He's protesting because the soldiers kill therefore supporting the terrorists is ok.

02-22-2006, 05:09 PM	#21 (permalink)
OPgary Tilted	[B]Fred Phelps and family is so worried about homosexuals. I wonder if he is surpressing a homosexual tendency himself? Just wondering..

02-22-2006, 05:55 PM	#22 (permalink)
ngdawg peekaboo Location: on the back, bitch	This has got to be some sort of internet record. As of 8:43 this evening, PGR's new membership for ONE day is 1,030! They began in November and membership total is now 8,275!!! Does a heart good that so many care. __________________ Don't blame me. I didn't vote for either of'em.

02-23-2006, 07:20 AM	#23 (permalink)
Poppinjay You had me at hello Location: DC/Coastal VA	I’m all for anything that intimidates Fred Phelps and his band of loonies. That said, it would have been nice if the Patriot Guard had organized when Phelps protested Matthew Sheppard’s funeral or when he protested Maya Angelou’s appearance at Emporia State, which caused her to cancel said appearance. The reason he protested? She probably knows gay people and doesn’t rebuke their lifetstyle. __________________ I think the Apocalypse is happening all around us. We go on eating desserts and watching TV. I know I do. I wish we were more capable of sustained passion and sustained resistance. We should be screaming and what we do is gossip. -Lydia Millet

03-06-2006, 02:29 PM	#25 (permalink)
rockogre I aim to misbehave! Location: SW Oklahoma	Sorry I wasn't paying attention the last few months. This rugged looking old biker is a vet and a patriot till death. I believe in freedom of religion and freedom of speech, but it stops when you disrespect anyone, not just vets, in this manner. The Patriot Riders have been in Oklahoma and I intend to help every time I can get there. Like everything I do, joining will take some thought, but they seem like as good a group of folks as I could ask for. We all need to stand up against this kind of ignorant crap! __________________ 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

03-08-2006, 11:45 AM	#27 (permalink)
rockogre I aim to misbehave! Location: SW Oklahoma	I am now a member! __________________ 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

03-09-2006, 06:37 AM	#30 (permalink)
rockogre I aim to misbehave! Location: SW Oklahoma	Just how my life goes. I get off my lazy old butt and try to accumulate some good Karma and Oklahoma goes and makes it illegal to protest at funerals. Now the shallow end of the gene pool announced on the news this morning that they would respect this law and not protest here. Good news for our folks I guess. Well, I got Texas on two sides of me so I can always go there to help out. Linkage __________________ 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 Last edited by rockogre; 03-09-2006 at 11:07 AM.. Reason: bad spelling

03-09-2006, 06:53 AM	#31 (permalink)
ngdawg peekaboo Location: on the back, bitch	Rockogre- Remember, it's not just about Fred, it's out of respect and gratitude. Families will continue to invite the Guard and its becoming quite a community as well. Thank you for joining. __________________ Don't blame me. I didn't vote for either of'em.

03-09-2006, 09:04 AM	#32 (permalink)
rockogre I aim to misbehave! Location: SW Oklahoma	Thanks ng. I was just mostly updating the thread about the law in Oklahoma. I remember friends of mine that were in Vietnam, through no wish of their own, being spit at and called names by beings of a lower class, and I will always stand against anyone that thinks they have some right to do that. Protest to your government, write your congressman, jump up and down on your soapbox, but absolutley do not blame those that served your government. YOU are the damn government! I'll ride with guys like this anytime. Sorry, almost got a rant going there. And, well, it's just funny sometimes how Kharma works. It's a shame that we had to pass a law regarding funerals in our state. And thanks for the near salute Bill 'O'. __________________ 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

04-17-2006, 09:32 AM	#33 (permalink)
rockogre I aim to misbehave! Location: SW Oklahoma	My first ride with the Patriot Guard. I rode in my first formation with the Patriot Guard this past Saturday. It was to honor this missing veteran. -------------------------------------------------------------------------- Air Force Sergeant MIA from Vietnam War is Identified The Department of Defense POW/Missing Personnel Office (DPMO) announced today that the remains of a U.S. serviceman, missing in action from the Vietnam War, have been identified and will be returned to his family for burial with full military honors. He is Tech. Sgt. Patrick L. Shannon of Owasso, Okla. Funeral arrangements are yet to be set by his family. Shannon and 18 other servicemen operated a radar installation atop Pha Thi Mountain in Houaphan Province, Laos, approximately 13 miles south of the border with North Vietnam. The site, known at Lima Site 85, directed U.S. bombing missions toward key targets in North Vietnam. In the early morning of March 11, 1968, the site came under attack by a force of North Vietnamese commandos. The enemy force had scaled the sheer mountainsides in the hours before the attack and overran the site. During the attack, some Americans made their way down to ledges, but survivors reported that several were killed. Several hours later, U.S. aircraft attacked enemy positions around the site, enabling helicopters to rescue eight of the 19 Americans, although one of the survivors died en route to a base in Thailand. Later that day, and for four additional days, U.S. air strikes bombed the site to destroy technical equipment left behind. -------------------------------------------------------------------------- This took place in Oklahoma City Saturday morning. There were between 300 and 400 motorcycles participating and I was proud to be among them. It was a very moving experience, as was the full military funeral. I don't have any of my pictures posted yet you this link is to some of the pictures that were taken. Pictures from the Patriot Guard I met some of the nicest people I could ever hope to meet. I also took my 23 year old daughter and she said that she learned a lot about why I am proud to be a veteran and that she was proud that I let her participate. For those of you that recognize it, my old orange Norton is in a couple of the pictures. __________________ 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 Last edited by rockogre; 04-19-2006 at 09:32 AM..

04-17-2006, 12:49 PM	#34 (permalink)
maleficent Junkie Moderator Emeritus Location: Chicago	thanks for sharing those pictures, rock... what a nice thing you did participating. What a lovely service... __________________ Free your heart from hatred. Free your mind from worries. Live simply. Give more. Expect less.

04-17-2006, 01:36 PM	#35 (permalink)
ngdawg peekaboo Location: on the back, bitch	Rockogre __________________ Don't blame me. I didn't vote for either of'em.