Patriot Guard Riders escort fellow veterans to their final resting place

Gary “Rusty” James was a retired Airmen who earned the Distinguished Service Cross for heroism in Vietnam.

James controlled the boom that refueled planes while in air. He died earlier this week, but will definitely not be forgotten.

Besides his mourning family, the Patriot Guard Riders are by his side as well.

This group of mostly veterans were originally conceived to combat the Westboro Baptist Church who would protest at the funeral of fallen service members. The Patriot Guard Riders remained active even as Westboro’s protests decreased.

Charles Steward, a group member said, “We provide honors, flag lines at cemeteries, we do rosaries, when we are requested by the family.”

You do not have to have a motorcycle in order to become a Patriot Guard Rider. You don’t even have to ride a motorcycle. All they ask for is respect.

Gregory Mitro, a Patriot Guard Rider, spoke about what brings them out. “We have a bond having served our country,” he said.

The group posts an honor guard at the funeral home, then accompany the procession to the grave site.

Upon arrival, they form around the grieving family, standing at attention with their flags to honor their fallen brother or sister.

Stacey Fernandez, the grand daughter of James relayed her feelings to me about the group. “To know that he was still remembered as an Airmen, I think he would be very happy to know that that part of his life was remembered because it was part of his identity.”

If you are interested in joining the Patriot Guard Riders you contact them on their website patriotguard.org