Arkansas Patriot Guard Riders receive Award
Recently, the Arkansas United States Daughters of
1812 presented the Arkansas Patriot Guard Riders with its Star Spangled Banner Award for exceptional patriotism. The presentation was made at the dedication of the “Weeping Veterans Tree” held at the Malik-Perkins Military Museum in Morrilton. The golden weeping willow tree was dedicated in memory of all veterans who were indigent, homeless and those who died with no known family present. Plaques with each hero’s biography were placed around the circumference of the tree to serve as a lasting tribute to honor these veterans.
In attendance were two veterans of World War II and veterans from every war since then. Also present were members of Veterans of Foreign Wars, Marine Corps League, Military Order of the Purple Heart and Arkansas Rep. Rick Beck.
Since 2007, members of USD
1812 have stood with the PGR. The ladies at first would attend a funeral or a send-off or a welcome home, holding small flags, but eventually were asked by the PGR to stand with them holding the large U.S. flag.
The PGR men and women brave cold, rain, snow, heat, wind, traffic, etc., as they attend the funerals of service personnel and veterans. In addition to their attendance at funerals, the group also greets the soldiers at welcome home celebrations, deployment ceremonies and performs volunteer work for veteran’s organizations.
Begun during the War on Terror in 2005, the PGR positions itself to physically shield the mourners from the presence of protesters. The group’s mission has expanded to include the funerals of law enforcement officers, fire department personnel and any active duty member or veteran of the U.S. Armed Forces and is now largely focused on recognizing and honoring the sacrifices of deceased soldiers. Their motto: “Hero down — Kick stands up.”