Southwest Florida Rider Organizations
 
Patriot Guard Riders
 
by A. Taylor "ATM" Musburger
 
Not caring about individual political views, whether its members are veterans or bikers, the Patriot Guard Riders have a very simple mission: Attend the funeral services of fallen American heroes as invited guests of the family. Each mission has two basic objectives: 1. Show sincere respect for the fallen heroes, their families, and their communities. 2. Shield the mourning family and their friends from interruptions created by any protestor or group of protestors. These are accomplished through strictly legal and non-violent means.
I met up with Joan, Florida Senior Ride Captain, one evening to discuss the Patriot Guard Riders (PGR) in general and in Southwest Florida.
The Patriot Guard Riders is a national organization that started with the American Legion Riders Chapter 136 in Kansas back in 2005. This was in response to a radical religious group that protests the funerals of fallen servicemen and women claiming that God hates them and America. Putting themselves between the grieving family and the protesters, the PGR normally stand at attention and hold flags, sing patriotic songs, and let everyone know that they are there to honor the fallen soldier.
In December of 2005, word was sent out and captains from each state were selected to help organize. Now, the PGR has over 150,000 members, and is continuing to gain 100 plus members daily. Members go on "Missions" to honor fallen soldiers, send off soldiers on their way to their tours of duty, and welcome soldiers back from the front lines. Luckily, there have not been any protests in our area.
Mission details can change at the drop of a hat. "Adapt, adapt, adapt," is Joan's mantra for such situations. Not a biker herself, as Senior Ride Captain, she plans Missions and sends out the information to PGR members. Volunteers, members show when they can. Joan has been to missions with as many as 150 members and as few as just herself. However many show, the families are always grateful. As a mother of two in the service of our country (a daughter in the Air Force and a son in the Army) she understands the importance of "Standing for those who stood for us."
As we came to the end our interview, Joan told me the most important concept of the Patriot Guard Riders, "It's not about us." God Bless.
My suggestion for our readers, should you happen to notice a member of the Patriot Guard Riders, go up and shake their hand for all that they do. If you would like to know what you can do, visit their website, www.PatriotGuard.org.