Once in a lifetime mission

It was an honor to participate in the Patriot Guard Rider mission on 23 May, 2013 as we escorted the Vietnam Prisoners of War to the Nixon Library, for their 40th and final reunion.  At their hotel, we formed a flag line through which they walked as they headed to the buses.  Spontaneously, each of us started saying, "Welcome home."  Once the buses were loaded, we mounted up and headed to the Library.

As our dozens and dozens of bikes slowly rolled, in two rows through Yorba Linda, the birthplace of and home for the President Nixon Library, the street was lined with with average Americans waving our National flag.  Classes of school children, residents of senior citizen homes, and other ordinary individuals cheered and waved as we rolled along, escorting the the POWs and their family members.

One sight is seared into my memory of that ride.

Somewhere along Yorba Linda Boulevard, I saw a man, about my age, standing at a perfect position of attention, rendering a parade deck worthy salute.  He was holding it from the point at which the first motorcycle and flag passed, until the final bus carrying the POWs rolled by.  My guess is that the gentleman was a Vietnam veteran paying his respects.

Once we arrived at the Nixon Library, I took the initiative to position myself by the door of one of the buses.  As they disembarked, I looked each POW in the eye, saluted, and said, "Welcome Home, Sir!"  Handshakes, hugs, and tears followed.  These were average appearing men, elderly now, some walking with assistance and others with noticeable limps.  Many were joined by wives, children, and even grandchildren.  One of the wives came up, eyes tearing, thanking me for my service and for the escort we'd provided.  I demurred, because the event wasn't about us, it was solely about the POWs and their families.

Then the band played, speeches were made, and the POWs and their family members entered the library.  We Patriot Guard Riders then shook hands on a mission well done and went our separate ways.  A little quieter.  More somber.  More reflective.    

With all that is being reported upon in our world, it was sobering, invigorating, and humbling to participate in this once in a lifetime mission, recognizing heroes from decades ago.