While others were watching football, these patriots came together -- voluntarily -- to escort a fallen Marine to the San Diego Airport for his final airplane ride home to New York. Shaking hands with the Staff Sergeant serving as Marine Corps Casualty Assistance Calls Officer (CACO), these patriots expressed their condolences at the death of her Marine.
For members of the Patriot Guard Riders (PGR), giving of their time, no matter when, no matter the day, is not at all uncommon.
As volunteers all, they proudly answer the call when missions are announced. Most are veterans. Most are bikers. But not all. But what each and every man and woman shares are patriotism, unbridled pride of country, and an abiding sense of duty. Duty to the fallen, whether it is a soldier, sailor, airman, or Marine who died on active duty or a deceased veteran who has honorably served our country.
This evening, six proudly volunteered to serve as pall bearers at the small funeral home in a quiet area of a small town adjacent to San Diego, while the others raised American flags and saluted. Once they loaded the hearse, they formed up, with many motorcycles flying large American flags. At the signal, they began their procession down the streets and onto the freeways for the relatively short ride to the airport, where they once again formed up and presented honors as the casket was removed from the hearse. The pall bearers executed a slow salute, touched the casket, then placed their hands over their hearts in a final gesture of respect.
Even after the air cargo personnel had moved the casket into the warehouse, preparatory to loading it on the aircraft, it seemed the PGR were reluctant to leave their brother-in-arms. They stood, many still holding their flags, in silent tribute. Eventually they walked to their motorcycles and departed, one by one.
Not a routine Sunday by any means.
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