The Patriot Guard
Riders are a patriotic group who
attend the funerals of members of the
U.S. Armed Forces at the invitation of the deceased’s family. Although initially founded by
motorcyclists, the organization is open to anyone, regardless of political affiliation, veteran
status, or whether they ride or not. The only prerequisite is "a deep respect for those who
serve our country; military, firefighters, or law enforcement". The Patriot Guard was
established in Mulvane, Kansas at American Legion Post 136 in 2006.
The group's mission quickly expanded to include the funerals of law enforcement officers, fire
department personnel, all first responders, and any active duty member or veteran of the U.S.
Armed Forces from all previous wars and conflicts and is now largely focused on recognizing
and honoring the sacrifices of deceased soldiers as well as their families and loved ones.
Mission Statement
Taken from the organization's website, the stated mission of the Patriot Guard Riders is:
"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. If you share this respect, please
join us. We don’t care what 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. You don’t even have to ride. 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 friends from interruptions created by any protestor
or group of protestors.
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."
U.S. Armed Forces at the invitation of the deceased’s family. Although initially founded by
motorcyclists, the organization is open to anyone, regardless of political affiliation, veteran
status, or whether they ride or not. The only prerequisite is "a deep respect for those who
serve our country; military, firefighters, or law enforcement". The Patriot Guard was
established in Mulvane, Kansas at American Legion Post 136 in 2006.
The group's mission quickly expanded to include the funerals of law enforcement officers, fire
department personnel, all first responders, and any active duty member or veteran of the U.S.
Armed Forces from all previous wars and conflicts and is now largely focused on recognizing
and honoring the sacrifices of deceased soldiers as well as their families and loved ones.
Mission Statement
Taken from the organization's website, the stated mission of the Patriot Guard Riders is:
"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. If you share this respect, please
join us. We don’t care what 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. You don’t even have to ride. 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 friends from interruptions created by any protestor
or group of protestors.
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."
