PGR - 1st Anniversary by a PGR member Jeff Lockhart . . . by Firehawk911

There are many great dates in American history. Some dates mark pivotal points in our nation’s development. July 4^th, 1776: The signing of the Declaration of Independence. September 17^th, 1787: The signing of the United States Constitution. December 7^th, 1941: The Japanese attack on Pearl Harbor. September 11^th, 2001: The terrorist attacks on the World Trade Centers and the Pentagon. These are dates that hold a marked place in our history. Dates that formed a nation, challenged her resolve, and tested her might.

Other dates have come and passed with far less fanfare or note - dates that may go unnoticed by many, but share in their profound impact on America. Dates when common men, bound by commitment and fueled by passion, achieved uncommon greatness. December 17^th, 1903: The Wright brother’s first manned flight at Kitty Hawk, NC. May 6^th, 1954: Roger Bannister became the fist man to run a four minute mile. July 20^th, 1969: Neil Armstrong became the first man to walk on the moon. June 12^th, 1987: Ronald Reagan delivers his speech saying “Mr. Gorbachev, tear down this wall!” bringing about the destruction of the Berlin Wall and an end to the Cold War.

Another date that may pass into the pages of time with little or no notice is that of November 9^th, 2005. Why is this a date worthy of any recognition? Simple. On November 9^th, 2005 – patriotism was reborn for many Americans.

On this date, a small group of men, based out of Broken Arrow, Oklahoma, gave name and formed an organization that would grow to be one of the most successful grass-roots movements of patriotism in American history. On November 9^th, 2005: The Patriot Guard Riders was formed.

From the humble beginnings of a handful, to a national membership of over 56,000, the Patriot Guard Riders have taken upon its broadening shoulders the role of the serving as and serving - the American patriot. In its earliest stages the Patriot Guard Riders made it their mission to attend military funerals – as invited guests of the family – to ensure that a fallen hero of this great country was given all the honor and respect that could be afforded to them. What grew from those simple yet profound expressions can only be characterized as inspiring to a nation in its hour of need

Over the past year, the Patriot Guard Riders has awakened a sleeping army of American patriots that – like the Minutemen of the Revolutionary War – take action at a moments notice. With increased membership, came an increase in capabilities, strength, and reach. The Patriot Guard Riders now have emblazoned their place in America as the defender of the defenders. The Patriot Guard Riders have made their goal simple in scope, but broad in impact. Honor.

Whether that honor is served through a flag line at a soldier’s funeral, an escort for a soldier returning safely from deployment, volunteering to help a disabled veteran paint his or her home, or starting a scholarship fund for the children of our fallen soldiers – the Patriot Guard Riders have embraced the role of expressing that honor on behalf of a grateful nation.

Humbly seeking no recognition, or public forum for political position, the Patriot Guard Riders will continue to grow and will continue to pay honor and homage to the brave men and women who so proudly and selflessly stand in defense of our country and our way of life.

There have been few moments in modern history when you could say you witnessed the changing of a nation. Pear Harbor, the assassination of JFK, the bombing of the Murrah Federal Building in Oklahoma, the terrorist attacks of 9/11 – all events that you knew would change the course of history. Who could have predicted that a handful of motorcycle riders – clad in leather – and holding a simple American flag – would have such an impact? All one needs to do is seek the thoughts of any one of the multitudes that have witnessed the Patriot Guard Riders in action to know – every one of their efforts denotes such a moment and leaves a similar lasting impact on all who have witnessed it.

As they reach their first anniversary, the Patriot Guard Riders exhibit no signs of slowing in their growing ranks of support - they humbly continue to pay honor to the heroes that have given the ultimate sacrifice of their own life. They continue to go about what they have accepted as their mission - Defend those who have defended us.

One year later, under the name of the Patriot Guard Riders - 55,000 Americans put aside social status, political debate, and personal agendas to support a common goal of honor and respect. In just one year of existence… the Patriot Guard Riders have emphatically stated for all to hear, “Patriotism, along with the memory of this country’s heroes . . . will never fade.”

Jeff Lockhart, PGR Member