On Monday 11-2, I took the opportunity to attend the military services for Kyle Coumis, an Army soldier from Lockeford, recently killed in Afghanistan. I went with PGR.
Although I have not followed them, it is my understanding that there have been discussions from time to time on this forum regarding PGR. The discussions have likely been mixed as to pro/con so I thought relate my experience.
The PGR provides flag corps and “security” against a-hole demonstrators at military funerals and homecomings. The PGR is very well organized and professional. They have a litany of rules and procedures, the most important of which is that the security function must be totally lawful and non-violent. The group participates only at the specific request of and in the fashion requested by the family. You don’t have to ride a specific type of bike, ride or even own a bike. Currently there are just over 180,000 PGR members nationwide. You need not be a Veteran or even a member to attend/participate in a "mission". The Road Captain provided a detailed briefing at the rally point.
The service (we did not go inside but rather stood outside with the flag line) was very emotional with a bag piper, gun salute and much formal military tradition. Lodi PD and CHP were there with multiple officers and motor officers all in dress blues.
All in all I feel it was a worthwhile expenditure of my time and plan to participate again in the unfortunate happening of another fallen soldier.
If you have interest, I encourage you to go to patriotguard.org. The schedule for missions throughout the country are displayed. The website is well organized and it is very easy to register.
Although I have not followed them, it is my understanding that there have been discussions from time to time on this forum regarding PGR. The discussions have likely been mixed as to pro/con so I thought relate my experience.
The PGR provides flag corps and “security” against a-hole demonstrators at military funerals and homecomings. The PGR is very well organized and professional. They have a litany of rules and procedures, the most important of which is that the security function must be totally lawful and non-violent. The group participates only at the specific request of and in the fashion requested by the family. You don’t have to ride a specific type of bike, ride or even own a bike. Currently there are just over 180,000 PGR members nationwide. You need not be a Veteran or even a member to attend/participate in a "mission". The Road Captain provided a detailed briefing at the rally point.
The service (we did not go inside but rather stood outside with the flag line) was very emotional with a bag piper, gun salute and much formal military tradition. Lodi PD and CHP were there with multiple officers and motor officers all in dress blues.
All in all I feel it was a worthwhile expenditure of my time and plan to participate again in the unfortunate happening of another fallen soldier.
If you have interest, I encourage you to go to patriotguard.org. The schedule for missions throughout the country are displayed. The website is well organized and it is very easy to register.
