Far from ordinary

For the vast majority of our fellow citizens in La Mesa, California, it was most probably an ordinary, average Thursday.  Nothing memorable.  Simply routine.  However, for one family, the day was traumatic, as they laid to rest their husband, father, grandfather.

At the funeral home, the family was joined by volunteers from the Patriot Guard Riders (PGR), who came to honor and pay their respects to a veteran, "standing for those who stood for us."

Some of the PGR went ahead to the Miramar National Cemetery, preparing to honor the arrival of their fellow veteran by standing a flag line.  Others escorted the procession as it made its way to the cemetery, American flag flying from some of the motorcycles.

At the committal shelter the volunteers, mostly veterans, formed another flag line to honor their brother.

  
This they did in supporting the family and (in this case) the Navy Honor Guard.

Not one of the PGR volunteers was acquainted with the veteran they were honoring this day.  There were no connections; no links to serving on the same ship at the same time.  The only shared experience was having served our great nation.

Indeed, it was not a ordinary, routine, or average day for the family.  Nor was it an ordinary, routine, or average day for the PGR members.  In fact, for this Patriot Guard Rider it was far from it.  How can one not be touched by the raw, gut wrenching emotion displayed by a grandson?  Hearing his anguished sobs and seeing the obvious pain.  The tears of the family members, with their voices catching during comments about their loved one touched us all.

No, it was not an ordinary, average, or routine day.

It was an important day, as strangers voluntarily came together to honor a fellow veteran.  As they do countless times during the year.  The race, ethnicity, gender, age, cultural, and other socially prominent identifiers used by all too many to separate us matter not to the PGR.  The only identifier that matters is that one who is or has served honorably was being laid to rest.

Tomorrow there will be another mission, with another following on Tuesday.  And another, then another, and another.

No routine, average, or ordinary days.   

Another day, another funeral

Middle of the month.  Middle of the week.  Early afternoon on a typically sunny day in San Diego.  Just another day, with another military funeral.  This time at the Miramar National Cemetery, adjacent to Marine Corps Air Station Miramar.

The breeze was up, as usual, causing flags to flutter.

Soon the family arrived with their Marine Corps veteran, escorted by the Patriot Guard Riders (PGR).  Awaiting them at the Commitment Shelter were the members of the Marine Corps Honor Detail, including a Marine bugler.

At the shelter, as the hearse pulled up, the PGR stood a flag line, coming to Attention and Presenting Arms as the casket was moved into position by the Marines.  The pastor spoke eloquently.  The family and friends of this departed Marine veteran nodded and offered some, "Amens."  His daughter stood and offered her appreciation in a shaky voice, speaking of her "Daddy" and playing song "I Will Always Love You" in his honor.

Military Honors were presented, earned by this Marine by his honorable and faithful service to his nation.  All stood while the rifle salute was fired.  The veterans and active duty military saluted and and PGR raised their flags to the Present Arms while Taps was played.  Eyes welled with tears and it mattered not that some had never met this Marine.  One of the PGR leaders explained the symbolism of every element of the military honors, from the 13 folds of the flag, the three rifle volleys, and the playing taps.  With the permission of the family, the PGR members offered one last Present Arms.  As each member departed, he placed his hand on the casket, offering a final prayer or thought.  For me, it was, "Semper Fidelis, brother." 

If you had been there and looked around, one aspect should have been obvious.  Race and ethnicity do not matter to those who came to help honor this Marine.  The Marines resplendent in their Dress Blues were there in a duty status.  The older, grayer bikers from the PGR were there as volunteers.  An African American Marine Corps veteran was honored by "old white guys" and a Filipino-American on motorcycles, led by an Asian American.  

All those there, regardless of race or ethnicity or age, were helping a nation recognize one of its warriors and his race mattered not.  

Were that it was the same throughout our society.    

 

Honoring the fallen

  
Chief Petty Officer Finan arrived in San Diego this morning and it was an honor to serve as an escort with my brothers from the Patriot Guard Riders.

KIA in Iraq, the explosive ordnance disposal specialist was transported from the airport to the Bankers Hill area of San Diego.  As the procession made its way along Harbor Drive, we could see members of the Coast Guard saluting.  On each street corner on 5th Avenue in Bankers Hill and Hillcrest, there were uniformed members of the Navy saluting as the procession passed.  Throughout, law enforcement provided traffic control and escorts, with the fire department prominent in the procession.

In addition to the military salutes, civilians lined the street, some waving American flags and some with their hands over their hearts.

Here is a short video from Channel 10 San Diego.

Picture of CPO Finan, overhead picture of procession (by Faris Tanyos), and video obtained from Channel 10 San Diego website.

Copyright Scripps Media

Take the opportunity to learn

Much is being said and written this weekend about actions instigated by a professional football player choosing to protest by not standing during the playing of the National Anthem.  

He definitely has a right to protest.

But I wonder if he's taken time or opportunity to learn about what the flag means to so many Americans?  And the impact of his protest on these Americans?

Maybe he'd learn something if he visited Miramar National Cemetery.  Particularly during a military funeral.

Or visit Fort Rosecrans National Cemetery.

Or attend a military funeral in small town USA.

Or talk with the family of a Marine who has deployed multiple times overseas.  (In the lower right corner of the pick-up truck rear window, it reads, "Deploy #10," meaning this Marine was returning from his tenth deployment.)  Like the vast majority of Americans, Ms. Kaepernick can't comprehend what a military deployment means and its impact.)

 

Or maybe he could join in welcoming home a Marine Corps unit from an overseas deployment.

Maybe Mr. Kaepernick could learn something of the value of the symbol of our nation at one of these locations or events.


Stipulating there is indisputably much to be done in the area of racial and ethnic relations, I nevertheless disagree with the form of his protest.  But it is unimportant and inconsequential if I agree or disagree.  However, it would be positive for forms of protests to be carefully considered beforehand, which may not have been the case.  

It is my sensing Kaepernick's upbringing and formative years of his youth were focused not on patriotism, but on developing and honing God given physical talents and athletic skills in pursuit of that NFL contract.  Good for him, living the American dream.  If this sensing is correct, he should not be blamed or criticized for his ignorance of the enormous feeling of disrespect created by the form of his protest.

Sadly, those who have and are serving our nation may miss his message in their outrage to its form.

To help him understand, there are opportunities to learn.  Reach out, visit a military cemetery, attend a military funeral, attend a welcome home ceremony for a military unit, talk with a veteran (I'd volunteer in an instant), read some history.  
Take the opportunity to learn so your protest can be put in context.

With my comrades, we served so to protect the rights of all Americans, including the right of free speech, upon which the ability to protest is built.  We may not agree with that free speech, but we proudly served to ensure the right for all Americans.

And we proudly wave the American flag.  

  

A military unit returns from deployment

As most of the nation enjoyed the first Saturday after Labor Day, I joined nearly two dozen fellow Patriot Guard Riders in supporting the homecoming celebration for VMM-166 (Rein), a Marine Corps squadron based on the V-22 Osprey aircraft.

Once we'd lined up the bikes outside the wire near the squadron's hanger at MCAS Miramar in San Diego, we walked through an enormous crowd awaiting the return of their warriors.  We had the privilege of standing our flag line in front of the temporary railing holding in the wives, husbands, children, parents, brothers, sisters, and friends gathered there.  Speaking with one lady, she emphatically told me I'd better not block her view of her "little boy."  Smiling, I offered he's no longer a little boy.

Looking at the crowd, the ladies were dressed to the T.  The children were carrying signs for their dads.  Fathers looked a little relieved.  And moms appeared to be on the verge of tears.  

We set our line, rehearsed the commands, and stood ready.  While waiting, several Marine F/A-18 aircraft took off, which is always inspiring.

Pretty soon the distinctive sound, the thumping rhythmic beating of the air, told of approaching rotary wing aircraft.  Then, overhead above the hanger could be seen four CH-53 aircraft, as they banked and entered the landing pattern.  They were followed by two groups of MV-22s, in flights of six and four aircraft.  

The crowd was cheering wildly as we came to attention and raised our American flags to Present Arms.  The cheering continued as our flags flowed in the wind.  

No one, REPEAT, no one took a knee here.

Once all the aircraft had landed, they taxied to their spots, with perfect Marine Corps precision, in front of the hanger.  On command, all aircraft simultaneously shut down their engines, leaving just the whines of the APUs filling the air that had moments before pulsed with the sound of large rotor blades.

With obviously well planned and ingrained military cadence, the aircrew and passengers from the lead aircraft, piloted by the unit Commanding Officer, marched in line to a point approximately 50 meters in front of the hanger, here they stood at Attention.  Then, will typical military precision, the crews and passengers from every other aircraft formed up and marched down to join the lead crew.  The formation started from the aircraft furthest from the hanger and as it passed each successive aircraft, another line of crew and passengers joined in, so the formation grew in size as it approached the hanger.

Finally, the large formation marched up and took its place behind the initial line of Marines.  Standing at attention, the Sergeant Major then turned about and reported the unit was formed to the CO.  He took command and in turn faced about and reported the unit to the Commanding General, 3rd Marine Aircraft Wing.

VMM-166 (Rein) had officially returned from deployment.  

After the CG departed, the CO then turned about and dismissed the command.  This was the highlight of the day, as Marines broke towards the hanger and the families and friends broke out of the hanger in their search for loved ones.

We stood aside, our mission complete.  I, for one, simply watched the reunions.  Mere words can not adequately describe the unabashed joy seen on the faces around me.  

Since less than one-half of one percent of the nation serves in our military, the overwhelming majority of the country has absolutely no idea how important this day was to the hundreds of Marines, sailors, and their families and friends.  Nor does the majority of the country take time to truly appreciate the sacrifices these men and women and their families make, day in, day out.

For this retired gray beard, being a small part of welcoming home VMM-166 was simply an outstanding way to spend some time this sunny Saturday. 

Footnote: Perhaps if Kaepernick had been standing with us today, he would appreciate why the American flag means so much.          

   

Veterans from different eras

Military veterans from different eras have and are pursuing a virtually identical past time - motorcycling.

The warriors who came home from World War II, purchased bikes, and grouped together are not a lot different from those from the nation's recent wars who have followed suit.

They prefer to associate with those who share similar experiences, as well as unbounded patriotism.

The wording on t-shirt worn by one young vet captures it well.  "If my patriotism offends you, your lack of a spine offends me." 

The camaraderie they learned and depended upon while in uniform is found in their biker clubs of today.  

Along with the aforementioned camaraderie and patriotism, like their forefathers they believe in integrity, honesty, hard work, earning your way through life, straight talk, the Second Amendment, brotherhood, directness, freedom, reciting the Pledge of Allegiance, standing for the National Anthem, saluting the American flag, honoring the fallen, and having a good time together.

Even though from different generations decades apart, the two groups of veterans are amazingly alike.  And we certainly need more of them. 

Quintessentially American

Nothing better conveys the image of American independence better than the motorcycle.  

Whether it is the solo rider on the open road.

A group ride.

The iconic imagery of the American biker is linked to independence, freedom, patriotism, and, perhaps, a bit of rebellion.

Today our young veterans are gravitating to the biker lifestyle, just as their forefathers did at the end of World War II.  What began in Hollister in 1947 continues today in locales like Sturgis.

More and more clubs are being organized by the veterans and active duty military, in which they share common values and the love of the open road.  

Seen at rallies and events across the nation, their leathers and vests are adorned with American flags, military insignia, service ribbons, combat action ribbons, rank insignia, and patriotic statements.

Multiple generations of warriors, from Viet Nam to Iraq and Afghanistan, roll alongside one another.  

The quintessential expression of American independence. 

Memorial Day 2016

Memorial Day 2016 will see thousands of bikers converge on Washington, DC to participate in Rolling Thunder.  Starting with staging in the north parking lot of the Pentagon (brings back memories of being one of the first in and last out of that lot during my time there 1993-1997).

Once the ride begins, it will be hours before the last bikes cross over the bridge into our nation's capital.

Along the route, the riders will pass Marine Staff Sergeant Chamberlain, nicknamed "The Saluting Marine."

Some will have ridden thousands of miles to participate in this uniquely American expression of patriotism. 

Like those in Run for the Wall.

Lest no one ever forget our fallen, POWs, or those for whom there is no accounting.

Lest we forget

Lest we forget.

 

Let their actions speak for themselves

As the saying goes, a picture is worth a thousand words.

Protesters at Trump rallies have stomped on the American flag. 

Burned the American flag.

And repeatedly flown the Mexican flag.

 Let their actions speak for themselves.

Inspiring students

While out cycling this morning, I came to a stop while passing Fletcher Hills Elementary School.

Why?


Because I could see and hear students and staff standing in front of the school by the flag pole, reciting the Pledge of Allegiance.



Quintessential way to begin the school day. The scene had a Norman Rockwell quality to it, at this neighborhood school located east of San Diego, California.



The lilting voices of the students as they finished, pledging, "...one nation, under God, with liberty and justice for all."




This inspirational scene is pure Americana and makes this old veteran proud.



All middle schools, high schools, community colleges, colleges, and universities should begin each day in the same way.

Marine Corps brotherhood on bikes for a great cause

Last Saturday, beginning in a little town about 20 miles north of Camp Pendleton, the Brotherhood of Marine Corps Riders (BMCR) hosted their 12th Annual Semper Fi Fund Poker Run.

Registration took place in the parking lot for the Chopper Gallery in Temecula.  On the initially overcast morning, the prevalence of Marine Corps and veteran patches was uplifting for this gray beard retired Marine.

Just as was the banter common among and between Marines.  

This morning the banter was familiar and comfortable, as the gathered Marines are also bikers.  While no excuse is really needed for a real biker to throw a leg over the saddle, dropping down $20 for the entry in a poker run supporting the Semper Fi Fund was a no brainer for these Marines.  Semper Fi is short for Semper Fidelis -- Always Faithful -- the world renowned motto of the United States Marine Corps.  What could be better than riding with fellow Marines in support of the indisputably best military charity?

In addition to registering, getting the first card for the poker draw, and grabbing a fat pill (also known as doughnuts), it was shaking hands, slapping backs, and acknowledging one another.  Then it was time to crank up the bikes and head onto the route for the next four stops, drawing a card at each and ending up in Winchester for a BBQ lunch.

Riding along some of the best biking roads in region, as evidenced by countless other bikes we encountered, my favorite stop was the Round Up, located by an RV park overlooking Lake Henshaw.  Nice little restaurant that seems to cater to bikers, since it is open only Friday, Saturday, and Sunday.

From there, it was only two stops to the Wild West Arena, where the lunch was superb (beef, ribs, salmon).  Predictably, my poker hand was miserable, but it didn't matter.  I had spent the day riding with my best friend since grade school and shared the event and roads with fellow Marine bikers, all in support of the Semper Fi Fund.  Doesn't get any better than that. 

Elsewhere, the liberals

It is mightily concerning to look at our country and see the wide disparities between real America and that which the power elite, main stream media, politicians, and other liberals embrace.

Real Americans turned out in the hundreds to honor fallen Marine Staff Sergeant Louis Cardin.  Elsewhere, many liberals fawn over serial liar and likely felon Hillary Clinton, eagerly seeking to elect her to the highest office in the land. 

Real Americans wake up each day, thanking God for their health, family, and well being.  Elsewhere, liberal judges, educators, unionists, and activists wake up each day seeking to silent Christians and punish the free exercise of their religious beliefs, while simultaneously demanding we accept the views of others.

Real Americans rise, take their morning meal, and then head off to their jobs, doing their best to support themselves and their families.  Elsewhere, liberals seek to take more and more from these working real Americans and simply give it away to those considering it a right to take from those who do and give to those who don't, a situation created by the liberals.

Real American warriors wearing the cloth of our country's military go in harm's way, standing ready to defend all the people of this nation.  Elsewhere, liberals seek to make the military institution a social science laboratory, determined to force their views on others, while simultaneously reducing our military readiness.

Real Americans tolerate opposing views of others, disagreeing while acting in tolerance.  Elsewhere, dogmatic liberals demand that views different from their own be silenced and even punished, while simultaneously demanding that all acquiesce to and accept their views.

Real Americans recognize and honor that the nuclear family (a marriage of one man and one woman, plus their children) is the foundation upon which our country's success is built.  Elsewhere, liberals embrace and celebrate same sex marriage, unwed motherhood (sometimes by multiple men), fathers failing to take responsibility for their offspring, and a nanny state philosophy.

Real Americans recognize the need for and support law enforcement, understanding that civil society requires willing obedience from its members.  Elsewhere, the liberals condemn law enforcement; celebrate the death of police officers; advocate looting, stealing, and property damage as forms of protest; and condone riots as "freedom of expression."

Real Americans recognize that one gets out of life what he/she puts into it, that achievement is directly related to effort, that self-esteem is directly derived from accomplishment.  Elsewhere, liberals believe that simply being is reason for being provided the products of the efforts of others.  

Real Americans seek opportunities to celebrate our great nation, proudly standing during the National Anthem, and display the American flag.  Elsewhere, liberals criticize our nation at every turn, condemn our success, and demand home owners remove displayed American flags.

Real Americans honor our veterans.  Elsewhere, liberals seek to use veterans for political benefit.

Real Americans simply want to be left free to pursue the American dream.  Elsewhere, liberals seek to use government, laws, and regulation to stifle the natural freedom inherent to the pursuit of the American dream.

Real Americans accept and embrace Martin Luther King's dream that we not be judged by the color of out skins, but by the content of our character.  Elsewhere, liberals seek to inject racism where it does not exist, to inflame through rhetoric, to create tension where none exists, to judge people by the color of their skin.
    

The real America

Southern California

26 March 2016

By rough counts, 280 bikers (many, if not most of them veterans) came together to escort fallen Marine Corps Staff Sergeant Louis Cardin home from his arrival at March Air Reserve Base today.  In a first, the hundreds of bikes were permitted to enter the base for this special mission.  

As the procession made its way south on I-215 from the base to Route 74, it was so massive that law enforcement essentially shut down a long stretch of the freeway, before it turned east towards the small town of Hemet.  As we rolled down I-215, each and every overpass was crowded with American flags, countless people, and even a few firetrucks and first-responders.  Some people in the vehicles heading north on the opposite side of the freeway had pulled off, with many standing and saluting the procession.

Continuing to roll through the small towns on Route 74, hundreds and hundreds of people turned out to pay their respects.  American flags were plentiful, with people noted for standing at attention, saluting, or placing their hands over their hearts in tribute to this fallen Marine. 

Old and young, men and women, children and grandparents.  These real Americans took time today to stand in the sun in a display of condolence.  They halted their cars along the road in both directions.  No one complained about the momentary disruption on a Saturday afternoon.  

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=3We5epc_duI

No matter what politicians and others may say, middle America...small town America...is real and very patriotic.  These communities recognize and honor the service and sacrifice of their soldiers, sailors, airmen, and Marines.

The first-responders came out in force, from beginning to end.  As we rolled, law enforcement and fire departments helped stop and direct traffic, as they too honored Staff Sergeant Cardin.

Talking to one local resident after Staff Sergeant Cardin was safely delivered to the destination, I was told the procession "seemed to go on and on."  Funny, though, some were highly conspicuous by their absence.  I did not see one elected official in the procession.  

I did see ordinary people.  I did see men, women, and children.  I did see veterans, young and old.  I did see soldiers, sailors, airmen, and Marines.  I did see the Air Force Security Police saluting as we rolled by.  I did see riders of all races.  I did see the Patriot Guard Riders.  I did see the American Legion Riders.  I did see the VFW Riders.  I did see many military themed biker groups.  I did see flags flying from bikes.  I did see the Marine Corps Honor Guard.  I did see somber members of the community paying their respects to a fallen Marine.

I did see the real America.