This is the Patriot Guard
The backbone of the Patriot Guard Riders is our members on the flag line. They are not Ride Captains, Senior Ride Captains, Assistant State Captains, or State Captains.
They are men and women, young and old who are willing give a few hours out of their day, day in and day out, to stand a tall and silent Flag Line in honor of a Soldier, Sailor, Airmen, Marine, Coast Guardsman, Police Officer, Firefighter, or member of the Emergency Medical Services who has passed on from this life.
Our members are Black, White, Asian, Hispanic and nearly every other Nationality. They are Republicans, Democrats, Liberals, and Conservatives. They ride Harley Davidsons, Hondas, Suzukis, Yamahas, BMW’s. They drive cars and some drive trucks. I’ve even seen some show up on a bicycle.
Simply put, they are Patriots willing to stand in the rain, sleet, snow, or hail. They are willing to stand in heat as well as the cold. They pay their own expenses, take time away from their families and duties to honor those who deserve it most.
On occasion, they are the “family” of a Veteran or First Responder who has no family of his or her own. Sometimes they act as pallbearers when none are available. What they do they do as an act of selfless Patriotism and a love of country. They set aside political differences. There is no such thing as race, creed, or religion. They gather as one, to perform a simple task that has a profound effect on the families of our fallen.
For some, being a Patriot Guard Rider has helped them heal some of the unseen wounds caused by war. They embrace the brotherhood and camaraderie that comes along with being a Patriot Guard Rider. For others, it’s a way of giving back to those who gave so much.
Friendships are forged, tears are shed, and they walk away knowing they have done the right thing, knowing that what we do is the least that we can do as Americans. God Bless each of you, your dedication and willingness to do the right thing has touched the lives of families from California to New York, from Hawaii to Texas. Never doubt that what you’re doing is important. I can assure you that those families will never forget what you did for their loved one.
Our Mission
The Patriot Guard Riders is a 100% Volunteer, Federally registered 501(c)(3) non-profit organization which ensures dignity and respect at memorial services honoring Fallen Military Heroes, honorably discharged Veterans and First Responders.
Our Vision
The Patriot Guard Riders is a diverse amalgamation of riders from across the nation. We have one thing in common besides motorcycles. We have an unwavering respect for those who risk their very lives for America’s freedom and security including Fallen Military Heroes, First Responders and honorably discharged Veterans. If you share this respect, please join us.
We don’t care what you ride or if you ride, what your political views are, or whether you’re a hawk or a dove. It is not a requirement that you be a veteran. It doesn’t matter where you’re from or what your income is. The only prerequisite is Respect.
Our main mission is to attend the funeral services of fallen American heroes as invited guests of the family. Each mission we undertake has two basic objectives:
- Show our sincere respect for our fallen heroes, their families, and their communities.
- Shield the mourning family and their friends from interruptions created by any protester or group of protesters.
We accomplish the latter through strictly legal and non-violent means.
To those of you who are currently serving and fighting for the freedoms of others, at home and abroad, please know that we are backing you. We honor and support you with every mission we carry out, and we are praying for a safe return home for all.