The Patriot Guard Riders staged at the DFW National Cemetery Visitor’s Center. Following the briefing, Honor Bikes moved to Lane A for the Procession to the Shelter and the remaining riders proceeded to Shelter A to set the Flag Line. Riders stood Honors for the Service of PO2 Ken Kauffman, Jr. Following the Service, the Flags were furled, Riders debriefed and dismissed.

The Patriot Guard Riders wish to thank the Family for inviting us to be a part of today's service

Respectfully,
Rusty "The Scot" McNab
Assistant Deputy State Captain

MISSION ACCOMPLISHED - Once again the North Texas Patriot Guard Riders stood tall and silent for Byron "Paw Daddy" McGalliard. Today's celebration of life was an outstanding tribute to a man who served his country during the closing months of World War II. We honored his life and service with a Flag Line prior to the funeral and again at the interment. A huge thanks goes to all the Riders who turned out, to Randy Smith for providing the flags and for Sylvia Miller jumping in and serving as the Mission Ride Co-Captain.

To Paw Daddy's son Jimmie, daughters Nancy, Joyce, Berta, Pat, and Pam, the 17 grandchildren, 47 great-grandchildren, 18 great-great-grandchildren and FOUR great-great-GREAT-children, the rest of the McGalliard family, and Mr. McGalliard’s many friends - it was truly a privilege for the North Texas Patriot Guard Riders to be there today. Thank you for the honor of allowing us to share in your loved one's celebration of life and may God comfort all of you in your loss.

Respectfully,
Rick Crabb
Ride Captain

The PGR staged at the parking lot north of the First National Bank of Burleson. Family and friends staged with us. After the briefing, two Sheriff patrol units saw that the entire procession had safe access to I35W. At that point, Ft. Worth Motor Escort Service provided safe passage to DFW National Cemetery. Approximately 22 bikes led the procession with approximately 7 bikes joining at DFW National Cemetery. Military Honor Guard folded the flag and taps were played. The flag was then presented to the family.

We would like to thank the family for allowing us the privilege of honoring PO2 Marshall for his service to our nation. May the Grace of God be with you during this time of sorrow.

Respectfully,
Gary "Doc Trot" Trotter
Ride Captain In Training

We manned a flag line at the memorial service for this Navy veteran.

We would like to thank the family for allowing us the privilege of honoring PO2 Marshall for his service to our nation. May the Grace of God be with you during this time of sorrow.

Respectfully,
Mike "Weldermike" Johnson
Chief Ride Captain

Saturday, 25 May 2013

Starting at 09:00  - Lasting ALL Day

We have been invited to a fundraiser sponsored by VFW Post 4746 and Auxiliaries in Weatherford, TX, with the net proceeds benefiting OUR organization - the Patriot Guard Riders. I have been informed by the organizer that all events will be free to the members of the PGR, including the Dart Run. However, if you would like to donate, it will be accepted and appreciated. For those of you who don't know what a Dart Run is, (which included me), it is the same as a fun run, but you buy darts. Once you return, you throw the darts - the one with the highest score wins! I don't know what the prizes are, but hey, it sounds like a good time.

This is the Memorial Day weekend and there are events for all ages. Please see the poster for the details. Hope to see you there!

Wendy "HotLips" Ingersoll
RC - NTX PGR

The PGR staged at Boyd Baptist Church for the first part of the mission. After our briefing, we established a flag line and stood tall and silent while the family and friends of AMM3C Eaves arrived for the service. Before the service started, the PGR certificate was presented to the family. The flags were then furled and the safety briefing for the procession to Willow Wild Cemetery was conducted. At the cemetery, a flag line was established for the service and, upon conclusion, the flags were returned to the bike and furled. Riders then recited the Pledge of Allegiance, a prayer was said, and were dismissed.

We would like to thank the Eaves family for allowing the North Texas Patriot Guard Riders to be a part of this Veteran's funeral and interment. It was an honor and privilege to stand for this Veteran and his family.

Respectfully,
Kelly Darst
Ride Captain

The Patriot Guard Riders staged at the main entrance to Greenwood Funeral Home. Following the briefing, a Flag Line was established on both sides of the entrance to the Funeral Home and on White Settlement Road to welcome Family and friends for the Service. Following the start of the Service, the Riders moved to the front of the building and the Family photographer took several photos for the Family. The Riders then moved to the support vehicle, furled the Flags and were dismissed.

The Patriot Guard Riders thank the Family for inviting us to be a part of this Service

Respectfully,
Rusty "The Scot" McNab
Assistant Deputy State Captain

MISSION ACCOMPLISHED - Once again the North Texas Patriot Guard Riders stood tall and silent for Mr. John Mills. Today's quiet ceremony was a tribute to a man who served his country as a United States Marine in Vietnam. For almost two years, no one stepped up to claim his remains. It was through the very diligent efforts of Ms. Laura Spain, Wise County Veterans Services Officer, new-to-North Texas Patriot Guard Rider Monty “Fuzzy” Rodgers, and the incredible generosity of VFW Post 10374 in Saginaw, that this Veteran was finally laid to rest with full military honors. This Mission was executed from start to finish in a record two and half hours and was a tribute to the Riders who were so very honored to be a part of it.

We can only thank God, Laura Spain of the Wise County Veterans Services Office, Fuzzy Rodgers, and the members of VFW Post 10374, as they were the ones who made this happen. We would also like to offer our deepest thanks to Al Evans and the staff of DFW National Cemetery for their eternal care of our nations Veterans.

Respectfully,
Rick Crabb
Ride Captain

The PGR staged at DFW National Cemetery shelter C . Following the briefing honor bikes moved to lane “C” for the procession. The remaining rider set the flag line for the arrival of family and friends for the Interment Service of Maj. Fleming. Following the service, the flags were put away unfurled to dry and riders dismissed.

I would like to thank the family of Maj. George Fleming for allowing us the privilege of honoring this American hero for his service to our country.

Respectfully,
Jammie "J Hawk" Yaw
Ride Captain

Mission Accomplished! Staging was set for 08:45 at Guerrerro-Dean Funeral Home in Grand Prairie. A Flag line was not set as this was a private viewing for the family and the Visitation had already occurred. At 09:15, a small group of PGR members met with the family and presented Mrs. Mcgee with the PGR plaque. 6 PGR members (all Marines) had the honor of loading Maj. McGee into the coach for transport to DFW National Cemetery. All remaining PGR riders rendered honors as he was loaded. KSU at 09:50 with Police Officers from the McKinney PD in attendance to honor their fellow officer, who was the son of Maj. McGee. The family was met at Shelter C by the Marine Honor Guard from the Grand Prairie station. 3 volleys of gun fire, taps was played, and the flag was folded and presented to Mrs. McGee for her husband's service to our country. After the service was completed, flags were furled and stowed, riders were debriefed and dismissed.

We would like to thank the McGee family for allowing us the privilege of honoring Maj. Edward McGee, Jr. for his service to our great country. As many of the family members stated, "Ed is smiling down on us right now". It is our sincere hope that we were able to give some comfort during this time of sorrow.

Respectfully,
Carlton "Cruiser" Emmons
Ride Captain

Staged at the DPS Station 1 to participate in the Procession for SGT Allen to Laurel Land Funeral Home. With LEO support from the Dallas County Sheriff's Dept., the Procession went very smoothly.

We would like to thank the Allen family for allowing us to honor this American Hero.

Respectfully,
Jack "Miami Vice" Brandon
Ride Captain

Patriot Guard Riders staged at the funeral home in Ennis. After the safety briefing, the Riders prepared for the procession to escort SM2 Henry Wesley Odlozil, Sr. and his family to the church. The PGR certificate was presented to the Mrs. Mary Jane Odlozil and family. After Honors, the procession to the church, with the assistance of the Ennis Police, went very well and we were greeted by the beautiful site of the flag line and fellow PGR members. After the service started, we furled the flags and returned them to the flag truck so the flag line could be reset up at the cemetery. While we were waiting for the end of the service, one of the granddaughters came out and told us more about her grandfather and his love of motorcycles, airplanes, family, and community. The procession to the cemetery, again escorted by the Ennis Police, went very well also. Just prior to the service, a friend of this great Veteran, volunteered to play taps. Michael Stephan, who just happened to be a member of the group, Bugles Across America, had his bugle in his car, and did an outstanding job. Ride Captains Jammie Yaw and Rick Crab presented the American flag to the Odlozil Family. After the service, the flags were furled, stored, Riders de-briefed and dismissed. The Odlozil Family invited us to their luncheon at the KJT Hall afterwards, and approximately 11 PGR were able to enjoy the fabulous food and hospitality. I would like to thank Randy Smith, Jammie Yaw, Rick Crabb, and Garland Raney for their assistance and the PGR volunteers for a Mission Well Done.

On behalf of each of the North Texas Patriot Guard Riders, I would like to thank Roger Hefner and the SM2 Henry Wesley Odlozil, Sr. Family for allowing us to be there with you today, honoring your loved one. It was truly a privilege for us to be there. May God comfort all of you in your loss.

Respectfully,
Char D Arnt
Ride Captain

MISSION ACCOMPLISHED: The North Texas Patriot Guard Riders stood tall and silent in honor of an American Hero, Sgt. Joe M. Buitron, Jr. Today's celebration was for a life lived to the fullest with honor, dignity, and respect. We honored his life, service, and family with a flag line at DFW National Cemetery.

To Gloria Buitron, the Buitron family, and Joe's friends: it was our honor and privilege for the North Texas Patriot Guard Riders to stand tall with you today. As a Marine combat helicopter pilot, I never met Sgt. Buitron but I knew him as a brother Marine, combat aircrewman, and warrior. Without a doubt, his actions in combat saved Marine lives and possibly others in the finest tradition of the Naval Service. Thank you for the honor of asking us to be with you during this difficult time and may the grace of God comfort you in your loss.

Respectfully,
Jim "Weird Andy" Anderson
Ride Captain

A group of us escorted Mr. Franklin and his family from Mansfield Funeral Home to DFW Cemetery. There was no Law Enforcement Officers nor Private Escort Service support. We traveled north on Hwy 287 to east bound I-20 at a speed not exceeding 55 mph. All went well.

I would like the thank the family of Mr. Franklin for inviting us to honor him. It was truly a privilege for us to escort and stand the flag line for this hero. Again, thank you for allowing us to be a part of this remembrance.

Respectfully,
Sylvia "Sapphire" Miller
Ride Captain

We staged at Memorial Stadium in Wichita Falls for a short ride to Jefferson Elementary School. After arriving at the school, there was a proclamation by the Mayor of Wichita Falls and patriotic music by the Jefferson Elementary students and Rider High School band. We departed at 13:30 and rode to Henrietta, Texas, with these heroes. They continued on to Dallas for their flight.

We would like to thank the families for allowing us to participate in this awesome event. These heroes touched all of our hearts and reaffirmed what the word "Patriotism" means.

Respectfully,
Ted "Frosty" Foster
Ride Captain

We placed a static flag line around and in front of Funeral Home. We also stood an Honors Line to receive family and friends to the service. A certificate was presented to the family prior to beginning of service. Once service commenced, we re-furled our flags and proceeded to Vashti to set out flags and stand an Honors Flag line. Once interment was complete, we re-furled flags and riders were dismissed.

On behalf of the North Texas Patriot Guard Riders, I would like to express our sincere thanks for being asked to be a part of this HEROES service.

Respectfully,
Paul "Bullet One" Miller
Ride Captain

PGR met at Restland Funeral Home to accompany PO1 Elman Chapa to DFW National Cemetery. We were escorted to the cemetery by North Texas Escort Service. After a safety briefing, the ride captain and PGR members presented a plaque to Mrs. Chapa and family, which honored PO1 Chapa for his service to this country. At DFW National Cemetery, we were joined by more PGR riders that prepared Shelter “C” for the arrival of PO1 Chapa family and friends. After the service, the flags were left in place to honor MR. Charles Bodin.

I would like to thank the family o fPO1 Chapa for allowing us the privilege of honoring this American hero for his service to our country.

Respectfully,
Jammie "J Hawk" Yaw
Ride Captain

Riders arrived at the staging point, most of whom had come from the mission in Midlothian. The bikes were parked and we went to the memorial site in the cages. We arrived and put the flags out and waited for the family and friends of Bill. I presented the plaque to Barbara Huey to start the service. The chaplain conducted a short service and as Amazing Grace was playing, riders manned the flag line at the large oak tree at the burial site. Rusty McNab and Mark Ingersoll performed the flag ceremony, taps was played from Randy's truck and I presented the flag to Barbara. She put Bill's ashes in the ground, covered them and a couple of people spread flower seeds.

The service ended, and we furled the flags, held a briefing, and closed with a prayer.

Many, many thanks to the Huey family for inviting the PGR to be a part of honoring this veteran and hero. It was truly a blessing..

Respectfully,
John "Ghostrider" Blase
Ride Captain

MISSION ACCOMPLISHED! It was a great day, incredible turnout and the North Texas Patriot Guard Riders supported the City of Midlothian in honoring their fallen Heroes. A huge thanks to the organizers, the Midlothian Police Department, and the Ellis County Sheriff's Office

May God continue to comfort the families of Capt. Lyle Gordon, USMC, Chad Littlefield, and Chris Kyle. It was a pleasure to spend the morning with you and see the smiles on everyone's faces

Respectfully,
Rick Crabb
Ride Captain

Riders arrived and began to tie the flags to the bridge guard rail supports using 18" and 24" plastic ties. We couldn't remember how we did this last year, so we improvised and secured the 30 flag poles. Then we waited. Although the general public did arrive, the attendance was down from last year. The RFTW riders still approached seeing flags across the bridge and many people waiving. Many of the bikers waived and blew their horns. We could see passengers on the bike taking pictures of us as they passed, some waived with two hands. We observed two of our own riders as they passed under us waving as they went by us

Again, thanks to Mary Ann Hand, Grand Prairie Coordinator, for notifying us of the RFTW schedule. It is really a great feeling to watch hundreds of motorcycles go by.

Respectfully,
Dan "Mad Russian" Mathys
Chief Ride Captain

Riders set up the flag line in front of the Dubiski Career Center and waited for the Run riders to arrive. As we waited, Boy Scouts planted small flags and some general public arrived to watch the riders. The first to arrive were the Advance Team and then finally the main body of riders with 9 platoons streamed. The welcoming crowd waived and cheered as the riders rode past us while they waived and blew their horns. At the completion of the procession, we furled the flags, briefed for the next day's departure mission, and went home.

Again, thanks to Mary Ann Hand, Grand Prairie Coordinator, for notifying us of Thanks to Mary Ann Hand, Grand Prairie Coordinator, for inviting the PGR to participate in the arrival.

Respectfully,
Dan "Mad Russian" Mathys
Chief Ride Captain

We staged at the information center at DFW National Cemetery, held the briefing, then proceeded to shelter B, unfurled the flags, and waited for the Honor bikes to bring TSgt Havens, family, and friends to the shelter. After the service, the flags were furled, a debriefing was held, and the riders dismissed .

I want to thank the Havens family for letting the Patriot Guard be a part in honoring this veteran.

Respectfully,
Garland "PaPa" Raney
Ride Captain

MISSION ACCOMPLISHED - Once again the North Texas Patriot Guard Riders stood tall and silent for SPC Jessie Garrison, Jr. USAR. Today's celebration of life was an outstanding tribute to a young man who served his country in the Army and continued in the Army Reserve until his life was tragically ended in Ft. Worth last weekend. We honored his life and service with a Flag Line at his interment..

To the Garrison family, friends and the men and women of the 90th Aviation Support Battalion - it was truly a privilege for the North Texas Patriot Guard Riders to be there today. Thank you for the honor of allowing us to share in your loved one's celebration of life and may God comfort all of you in your loss.

Respectfully,
Rick Crabb
Ride Captain

We posted the flags outside the funeral home and stood silent as family and friends came to pay their last respects to their loved one, PFC Charles Bodin. At the conclusion of the service we participated in the procession to DFW National Cemetery. A motor escort provided for our safe travels to the cemetery.

I would like to thank the Bodin family for inviting the Patriot Guard Riders to be a part of this service. It is always a privilege to come and honor our American Veterans who served our country keeping us safe.

Respectfully,
Ken "Chigger" DuBois
Ride Captain

The PGR staged at Altamesa Church of Christ in Ft. Worth. A briefing was held and flags were deployed around the church. PGR members stood tall and silent at the Flag Line. Following the start of the Service, the Riders moved the flags to the support vehicle, furled them and stowed them in the trailer. Upon completion of the Service, the Riders took part in the Procession to DFW National Cemetery. We were joined by additional PGR riders at DFW that had prepared Shelter "C" for the arrival of Sgt. James Hall, his family, and many friends. After the Interment service, the flags were furled and riders debriefed and dismissed.

I would like to thank the family of Sgt. Hall for allowing us the privilege of honoring this American hero for his service to our country

Respectfully,
Gary "Doc Trot" Trotter
Ride Captain

The Patriot Guard Riders staged in the parking lot of the funeral home. Following the briefing, all bikes were moved to the east side of the building and parked at a ninety degree angle to the building. This was done at the request of the Family to be ready for the final part of the Memorial Service. The riders then stood the Flag Line for the arrival of Family and friends. Following the start of the Service, the riders moved into the office of the funeral home to await the final portion of the Service. After the Pastor completed his portion, the United States Navy Honor Guard moved into the Chapel to fold the Flag and render Taps. All riders moved into the Chapel and stood on both sides during Honors. Following the presentation of the Flag, riders moved to their bikes, Family and friends moved to the parking lot. At the signal, all engines were started and throttles opened in a symbolic last ride for PO3 Bill Mims

The Patriot Guard Riders thank the Family for inviting us to be a part of this service

Respectfully,
Rusty "The Scot" McNab
Ride Captain

The PGR staged at the DFW International Airport near the AA Hangar on E. 28th Street, where the riders were briefed on the mission. We joined the procession from the airport to the funeral home. DFW Airport Police provided escort to the Airport boundary and North Texas Escort Service provided the escort the remainder of the route to the Funeral Home in Grand Prairie. A second group of PGR staged at the Funeral Home to set up a static flag line for the arrival of the procession.

The Patriot Guard was honored to be invited to be a participate in the procession to the funeral home. Our sincere condolences.

Respectfully,
Darl "Mach II" Easton
Ride Captain

WELCOME HOME! The North Texas Patriot Guard Riders were extremely honored today by being asked to escort approximately 100 members of the Texas Army National Guard home from their deployment overseas. Four busloads of Heroes pulled into our staging area in Canton, TX. After a short break, the PGR escorted everyone to the Army National Guard Armory in Ft. Worth to awaiting family and friends. Of special significance is that 100% of their unit returned home safely today. Once again, it was North Texas Patriot Guard Riders HONOR to complete this mission today. Welcome Home Soldiers! Thank you for your service to our Country.

Special Thanks to the Canton Police Dept. for getting our lengthy procession out of Canton and the North Texas Escort service for getting us safely from Canton, TX, to the Army National Guard Armory in Ft. Worth, TX .

Respectfully,
Gary "Doc Trot" Trotter
Ride Captain

After the riders were briefed at the visitors center, they proceed to shelter A to prepare the flag line. The Ride Captain waited for the family to arrive and moved 2 honor bikes to the lane to escort the family. Once the family arrived, the plaque was presented to former PO2 O'Neil and his family. One of our riders was present who graduated veterinary school with Capt. Harris-'Neal. At the conclusion of the service several family members went to each rider in the the flag line to thank them. The riders furled the flags and were dismissed.

I wish to thank Mr. O'Neil for his service off the coast of Vietnam and for inviting us to be a part of their day today. It was an honor for us to be there to honor a woman who served her country and her fellow man, even to the last act by donating her body to science.

Respectfully,
Dan "Mad Russian" Mathys
Ride Captain

MISSION ACCOMPLISHED: The North Texas Patriot Guard Riders stood tall and silent for this American Hero, Joseph A. Haskins. Today's celebration was for a life lived with honor, dignity, and respect. We honored his life, service, and family with a funeral procession to, and a flag line at, DFW National Cemetery.

To the Joseph A. Haskins family and friends: it was our honor and privilege for the North Texas Patriot Guard Riders to stand tall with you today. Thank you for the honor of asking us to be with you during this difficult time and may the grace of God comfort you in your loss.

Respectfully,
Jim "Weird Andy" Anderson
Ride Captain