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Meet the Patriot Guard Riders, a federally registered 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization that exists to honor and show respect for fallen military heroes, veterans who have been honorably discharged from service and first responders.
The 100% volunteer organization is made up of patriots from across America. Their vision is to honor the men and women who have risked everything including their lives, to ensure that others keep their freedoms. Patriot Guard Riders also honors the families of those who have served.
Patriot Guard Riders offer troop welcome home and send-off events, plus assist wounded warriors and veterans in need. They offer a presence at funeral services for fallen American heroes. They shield family and friends during mourning, against funeral and service interruptions as a result of protests.
The organization started 20 years ago by two America Legion riders, who were disgusted at protests being held at military funerals.
“A group from Kansas from Westboro Baptist Church started protesting military funerals, saying, ‘God was killing our soldiers because we were allowing gays in the military,’ ” said Brian Parker, a ride captain within the organization.
As a result the organization was formed to help shield families from such disruptions.
Patriot Guard Riders operates within a strictly legal and non-violent way. They work in partnerships with such organizations as Wreaths Across America and Snowball Express, which serves children of fallen military heroes. They also work closely with Tunnels to Towers. It started with just two riders and has grown to more than 370,000 across the country.
There are no requirements to become a Patriot Guard Rider except that one honors and shows respect where it’s due. There are no chapters, borders, meetings or dues, and one need not be a veteran nor own a motorcycle.
To be eligible for Patriot Guard Riders services, one only has to have served in the military, law enforcement or as a first responder. The group’s states, “We stand for those who stood for us.”
Details: Email handybmp327@gmail.com or visit patriotguard.org.