Our marines and soldiers courageously put their lives on the line to protect ours. Offering them a dignified farewell is crucial. The Patriot Guard Riders, a US-based organization, boasts members committed to ensuring that our fallen heroes receive a peaceful and honorable funeral. They stand guard at the funerals of fallen heroes, shielding them from demonstrators and potential harassment. Additionally, they attend funerals for homeless veterans.
These dedicated bikers occasionally organize homecoming ceremonies for troops returning from overseas deployments. A viral video showcases the Patriot Guard Riders’ unwavering commitment to honoring our fallen soldiers. In the case of Staff Sgt. Jonathan Turner, a veteran with seven deployments in Iraq and California, the PGR riders were present to pay their final respects. Sadly, the family of the 41-year-old veteran couldn’t make it to California.
Understanding the impropriety of sending Turner’s remains via FedEx, the Patriot Guard Riders stepped in, offering to ensure the secure delivery of the veteran’s ashes to his family. Jeff Goodiel of the Georgia Patriot Guard Riders shared with Fox 5 Atlanta, ‘The California Patriot Guard Riders contacted all of the state captains from California to Georgia and explained the situation, that it wasn’t proper to ship this war hero home via FedEx.’
In a remarkable display of solidarity, a convoy was swiftly organized, with each state’s Patriot Guard Riders taking responsibility for transporting Turner’s cremated remains across their respective states. The procession continued as each group of riders passed the sacred duty to the next, covering the entire journey until the remains safely reached Turner’s awaiting family members.
The Patriot Guard Riders reported that the journey to deliver Turner’s remains was the longest of its kind, spanning over 2,000 kilometers. A remarkable hundred bikers volunteered to ensure the safe delivery of Turner’s ashes. In an interview, Annie Glanton, Turner’s mother, expressed her gratitude, stating, ‘It’s heartwarming to see all these people here. I know he was well-liked by many people.’
The PGR website pays tribute to Turner as a great leader who inspired his fellow Marines both in the Corps and in everyday life. It emphasizes the respect and sacrifice he earned, noting, ‘Whether you knew him for five minutes or five years, you were his friend. He’d give you his shirt off his back.’ This touching act by the bikers serves as a powerful reminder that, beneath their imposing exterior, bikers harbor warm and compassionate hearts.
Watch the video below to witness the selflessness and dedication of the Patriot Guard Riders. While they may not have served in combat, their noble actions make them heroes in their own right!