CLAREMORE —
The Patriot Guard Riders escorted Sgt. Anthony Peterson of Chelsea and his family yesterday throughout the day until reaching his final resting place at Ft. Gibson National Cemetery.
The PGR is a group of riders who volunteer their time to escort soldiers home from war. Membership only has one requirement, respect for those that risk their lives for America’s freedom and security.
Riders from around the state gathered to honor Sgt. Peterson at his memorial service. Approximately 100 bikers rode yesterday with the PGR, some veterans, some not and others who were Gold Star parents.
“I ride to support the soldier and his/ her family,” said Jeff Brown. The Oklahoma group was formed after a phenomenal response via the Internet and email, he said.
“We feel honored to be able to support the families,” said Brown.
He also noted that the group only rides when invited by the family.
“The ride is not always involving a funeral. Anytime a soldier comes home we want to be there,” he said.
Darrel Carver, a Vietnam Veteran rides for a very personal reason. He lost his son PFC Cody Carver in Oct. 2007.
PFC Carver died in Iraq just 28 days after arrival due to an improvised explosive device and enemy fire.
“After Cody’s funeral I remember seeing over 300 riders outside the church. It touched my heart and I wanted to get a bike and join them,” said Darrel Carver.
Stories like Cody’s are echoed again and again when meeting Patriot Guard Riders.
Each rider has a different motivation to join but the same mission. The mission is to show sincere respect for fallen heroes, their families and their communities.
The second objective of the group is to shield mourning families and friends from any uninvited guests or UGs as riders call them.
Most riders wear patches on their jackets. The patches serve as reminders of the sacrifices made in the past and present. Our soldiers are never to be forgotten and always to be respected and honored, according to riders attending services yesterday.
More information about the Oklahoma Patriot Guard can be found on the web at pgrok.com.
Chelsea
Related Photos
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Darrel Carver rides with the Patriot Guard to honor his son who died in the war in Iraq. Salesha Wilken
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Patriot Guard Riders escort the Peterson family yesterday as they travel to Ft. Gibson National Cemetery. Salesha Wilken
Riding for all the right reasons - The Patriot Guard
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