PGR_NTX Patriot Guard SGT Gregory Owens, Jr. Tribute

Tue Aug 4 00:15:13 CDT 2009

Ladies and Gentlemen,

Last week we completed an honor mission for the late SGT Gregory Owens, Jr.,
KIA in Afghanistan.  This, like all KIA missions, will not soon be forgotten
by any of the riders who were able to participate in any part of it.  Who
could possibly forget when Mr. Owens came to talk to us on the flight line
at JRB in Fort Worth and "bragged on his boy" a little bit and the Base
Commander coming to pay his respects.  The base turning out once again, the
visitation, the funeral service, David and the bell, the huge turnout of
family and friends and the celebration of SGT Owens' life.

Now there is more.  I was forwarded a message today from our State Captain
from a person who was also present.  His words are self explanatory and at
the end of his message is a link to a video.  For those who were able to
attend you will remember.  For those who weren't you will get the feeling
you were there.

Mission Ride Captain Randy Roberts made a very good point during one of his
briefings, as he usually does.  He said that to him, a flag line is like
church and that standing in a flag line is like being in church and that we
should all act accordingly.  He is, of course, absolutely correct in every
way.  The video shows us a view that we don't often see.what goes on inside
the service.  It IS church.  Not a church atmosphere.church itself.  A
different atmosphere portrayed outside is not in keeping with the solemnity
of the occasion.  Should others contribute to such an atmosphere, we can't
do anything about that.  We, however, all of us, should be ever mindful to
observe all of the proprieties of the occasion at all times.  This is in no
way a criticism of anyone, just a reminder to all of us, including me, to
focus on why we are there and the image we are trying to project.  

Below is the message that was forwarded to me in its entirety.  Then there
is the link to the video.  Please watch it.  It will be a wonderful 9:49
seconds.

Thanks for your indulgence.  Smile as you watch Sgt. Owens' life celebrated
by his family and friends and as they remember him and hold them close as
they mourn him.

Steve

Howdy, my name is Jerry and I am a video producer.  I recently produced a
video for Sgt. Gregory Owens of Garland, TX.   The family specifically
requested I feature the Patriot Guards and extend a Texas size serving of
appreciation for the service you provided the family.

I knew of the PG through other videos on YouTube and I relied on your
website to give current information regarding itineraries'.  This is
important for me to find local resources for photos and quotes. Sadly, our
local media was short on information. The city is running short on funds for
an escort.  The governor failed to issue a proclamation or order flags on
state buildings flown at half-staff.  The PG members of DFW withstood three
sizzling hot summer days to pay their respects.  As an Air Force veteran
myself, I can say you guys restored my pride in being a Texan.  

Here is a link to the Owens video:
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Ag5qUf2eB54

Regards,

Jerry Castillo

Video Producer

YouTube Channel:  US Military Fallen a Tribute
<http://www.youtube.com/user/jcastillo57>  Channel
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