....Our First PGR Mission

[~ Timbrwolf]

...Like I said before, Chili and I joined the local Patriot Guard Riders, and did our first mission yesterday....it was up in Boyne City, about 40 miles North from our house.
They were holding a service for a young man that was only in Afghanistan for two short months before his life was taken from him in a small arms attack. His name was Jackie L Diener II and he was only 20 years old.





The Heathens from the so called Westboro Church had sent out an announcement, saying they would be there to "protest" ....but they were a no show, which was good....apparently they say they are coming to every Military Service just to keep people guessing ...when and where they will show.


...We got off to an early start...hit McDonalds for some take out to eat along the way and headed for Boyne City....it was 20 degrees out and would hover around there for the entire day. When we got there a large group of PGR Members, as well as others who had come to pay their respects were already there.





....This is what we saw when we first pulled up.





....These two guys were in charge of the PGR and gave a short speech at the beginning to tell everyone what to expect. As they were talking the local Sheriff interupted to thanks us all for coming and how it was a good thing we were doing to show our respect and protect this family at a terrible time in their life.





....The crowd listened intently





...There were many faces in the crowd...each had their own reasons for being there that day.





One of the PGR Leaders asked if anyone would like to lead a prayer and this gentleman stepped forward.





...afterwards...we all lined up as instructed..and waited for the family. Out of respect for their privacy we were asked not to take any pictures of the family, so I didnt. But I still tried to capture the raw emotions that were every where...





...This is when I began to slowly wander around and take some pictures...like I said before...I tried to capture the solemn...raw emotions that were heavy in the air...and still be respectful to those who were there. Most times in the past I would just walk up and start taking pictures at whet ever event I was at, in an attempt to get more realistic, candid shots...but this time I found myself asking folks first, if they midned me taking their picture...all said it was okay.




















...The family arrived in a caravan with a streach limo leading the way. Those who were military saluted silently as they passed into the school, us civilians held our hand over our hearts.






...After the family entered the service we all went into the lunch room to wait until the service was over. As I said before, it was 20 degrees out most of the day, but with the wind factor  that tempature easily dropped to zero. It made me very proud to see so many folks come out and brave the elements and show their respect. They had hot coffee waiting for us in lunch room, and it was definitely appreciated. Sitting there, I saw a collage of pictures that someone in the family had put up, so I went over and took a few shots. So many times we see and hear about someone in the military who has given their life for this great country of ours. A faceless name and soul....I think this gives the entire event a better perspective....the life of a young man....taken before he even got to really enjoy it.






...And even though I am proud of the sacrifice...it still made me sad to think how this war will soon be winding down, and except for family and friends...young men like this will be all but forgotten.


...Like I said..it was cold outside....VERY cold !






After about an hour or so the service was over and we all lined up and waited. They gave a 21 gun salute before the family reemerged.






....Chili waiting with the rest of us..






..The service over...they proceeded back out to the waiting funeral procession...





...and again....a silent salute....I did over hear one of the family comment how all these people waited out in the cold to pay their respect...and how much she appreciated it....that moment will be locked in my memory forever...its been a very long times since I felt this patriotic.. .






....This was our very first PGR Mission, and I have to tell you it was an incredible event. Even though there were no motorcycles to be seen because of the weather and salt on the roads...there was an abundance of leather and patches present...a sign of what the motorcycle community stands for...and our beliefs.

[Gear Jammer]

Good on ya Chili and Timbr for what you did that day.  The family will never forget it either.

[Oss]

good for you timbr and chili

no matter the temperature there always seem to be these gnats around my eyes
whether it is a soldier returning to his final rest here in the states or a WWII veteran
being led to where he sleeps the long sleep of our heroes

damn  they are even here inside now

[eric in md]

great work men .. .  you gave me the chills just reading your story.. thanks again .

[R J]

Welcome aboard the PGR, David & Faith.    I've been a member from almost Day 1.   Lost count of how many missions I have stood in.  It has been hot, cold, raining, snowing and also real nice weather.

Have encountered the Baptist people a few times.   At the beginning we used to kind of form a line and walk them backwards.    Then we just decided to form our line and block them from other peoples sight.   I'd hate to say when the last time they have been to one of our missions.     

Since I went on the O2 tank, I haven't been to many missions.    Right now, I don't even try, unless it is 65* and sunny.      Got one gentleman in our group, when he sees me, he just kind of ushers me back to my vehicle and tells me to set still.     So I did for awhile and now I don't try to hard to attend.    If I get to feeling better, I'll be back attending on our missions.

[Jess Tolbirt]

every time i attend a mission i get so dam mad it wouldnt do them westboro guys to cross my path..i really dont want to go to jail but the soldier gave his life for me and i dont guess i would mind to bad to spend a little jail time for him..

[Jess from VA]

Thanks for sharing your experience Timbr/Chili.  Nice job.

[scoot]

I've done a couple missions now. It really puts things in check.

[Popeye]

Nice report.  Thanks for sharing.  I attend the missions every chance I get, it's the least I can do.

[scoobydoo]

Timbr/Chili,
Thanks for taking the time to honor one of our true HERO"S
ScoobyDoo
Phil Dosher
Southern Indiana PGR Ride Capt.

[Fritz The Cat]

What a damn shame. Pisses me off to see a young life taken like this. what the hell is wrong with the human race????

[laserpat]

Thanks for posting, I felt like I was there

[solo1]

Very good and respectful post, David and Faith.

I've not joined the PGR yet and it would be a little hard for me to stand outside  in all weather but maybe I will.

Thanks to you and thanks to the PGR.

[Smokinjoe-VRCCDS#0005]

Very good and respectful post, David and Faith.

 
Thanks to you and thanks to the PGR.

I agree with Wayne .... Rest in peace Jackie L Diener II.

[The Anvil]

Great post.

[KW]

Thank you for posting this brother. I enjoy reading you postings. I have a new found respect for the two of you for making this journey. And, thank you for joining the PGR. We’ve been members since a chapter first came to Michigan, but because of illness and surgeries, just haven’t been too many of the events.  We’re looking forward to making it up north next summer at some point and having that long awaited coffee. God bless~

[HayHauler]

Great post Timbr.  That is a good thing you and Chili did.  
Thanks for taking the time to post such a report.  


Hay
Jimmyt

[Chattanooga Mark]

Thank you for putting your desire to help into action. The Patriot Guard is a great way to do it.

God bless you,

Mark

[Fudd]

Thank you for putting your desire to help into action. The Patriot Guard is a great way to do it.

God bless you,

Mark

My exact thoughts, also.

These photo's really captured the moment, and I agree, the family shouldn't be photographed out of respect.

It's sad that a group that calls themselves "Christians" would hatefully disrupt an American hero's funeral and further agonize families that are suffering profound grief.  I personally feel that the WBC's right to free speach shouldn't supercede the right's of the family to hold a dignified funeral.

[98 T]

Thank you for being there and honoring this young soldier.  And thank you for posting - gave me the chills and  it's good to see stand-up people doing good things to help a grieving family at a tough time.

Thanks!

[buffalobill]

As a proud member of the Patriot Guard, I want to thank you for standing for Jackie, his family and brothers here and abroad. I have stood in too many of these, but I still go because it is the right thing to do. Again, thank you for being there.
Bill Brainard "buffalobill"
ride captain,
Patriot Guard
NY Region 1

[ValkyrieRider]

As a patroit Guard member and fellow American, Thanks for being there. I have been in the Patroit Guard for 3 years now. Thanks God for Americans that are not afraid to Stand and Honor those that gave us our Freedom.

Eddie
Colorado Patroit Guard Ride caption.

[donaldcc]

  all the support i can offer to our troops and those that sacrifice for our country. why are our young men in these places? 

[Black Dog]

Dave...  Every time you post, I know it will be good...  You and I have talked about you making a book of your photos and thoughts... 

This is by far your best... I've often wondered what a PGR mission was like.  I've never had the chance, nor an invite.  The respect you had for the family, the insight you provided from the viewpoint of a first timer, and as always the pictures...  You have an eye...  An eye that takes us readers, there with you...

Thank you...  Wow 

Black Dog

[bogator]

Dave,  ----sometimes it gets rough standin out in the weather ---but it is worth it---when you hear-----THANK YOU for being here---      --I went to the PGR thread and saw your post ----thanks--

[Dubsvalk]

Each mission is special and worth every effort!  Thanks for caring!
Dubs

[czuch]

Great post.
The second best reason to own a bike, and the best reason to have a full face helmet with a dark shield. It astounds me every time the family thanks us for being there. Imagine.
As far as a chance, to attend, there have been too many.
As far as an invite, youre on your own. Patriot Guard Riders.com.

[texaninsouthfl]

Welcome to PGR! Joining was the FIRST thing I did the day I brought the Fat Lady home.

I can think of few things I've ever been a part of that are more worthwhile than being a Patriot Guard Rider.

Thanks for sharing your experience.... and for the those who aren't members of PGR, I heartily encourage you to join us in standing for those who stood for us.

www.patriotguard.org

Cheers,

Tex

[medic 1]

My wife's son was KIA 6-20-2006 and the PGR showed up in respect. From a personal perspective having them there was very supportive and very emotional. The UG's did not show up but lots of support from all the area FDs and the community. We have since joined the PGR ranks and don't regret it and neither will you. Thank you for standing for those that can't. Bill

Lcpl Brandon J Webb USMC/Firefighter

[~ Timbrwolf]

. . ...our condolences on the loss of your stepson....you are in our thoughts and prayers..

My wife's son was KIA 6-20-2006 and the PGR showed up in respect. From a personal perspective having them there was very supportive and very emotional. The UG's did not show up but lots of support from all the area FDs and the community. We have since joined the PGR ranks and don't regret it and neither will you. Thank you for standing for those that can't. Bill

Lcpl Brandon J Webb USMC/Firefighter

[~ Timbrwolf]

...Thanks to everyone that responded to this thread...it was indeed a very moving experience....not one we will soon forget....

....and Steve....thanks for the kind words....hope you and the boys have a Very Merry Christmas..

[Chattanooga Mark]

I'll be on my first Illinois Patriot Guard event tomorrow morning. Welcoming home a young Marine who lost both legs in Afganistan.

God bless the American Veteran,

Mark

[RoadKill]

Every PGR event should feel like the first one....moves you in a way that can not be described with any other word except  PROUD   !

[Chattanooga Mark]

I agree. I attended my first Patriot Guard Rider supported event this morning. What a great turn out: PGR, Police, Firemen, HS Band, friends, neighbors, flags waving, home made signs and others like me who dodn't know the young Marine at all. I just wanted to welcome him home. As we was wheelded past me I was able to look him in the eye and say God bless you sir. The event had me in tears a few times. The overwhelming sincere thankfulness and gratitude from this Marine and his family was more special than I have words to describe. I'll certainly be getting more involved with the Patriot Guard Riders and what they do.

Thank You,

Mark