2008 May 11 « Rides Roads and Ronman

Today was a wonderful day in Middle Tennessee. The 1175th Transportation Company would be flying into the Smyrna Airport to load onto buses for the ride home to Tullahoma. I was excited that not only was this gonna be a happy Patriot Guard mission but also I was going to be able

to be a part of it.

We were excited to learn that we’d be able to greet these heroes out on the tarmac. No matter how you feel about the war you should be supporting these heroes. I think they know that we love our soldiers and are most greatful for the sacrifices that they choose to make for us as Americans.

Patriot Guard members come in all shapes, sizes and ages. If you love this country and want to show support for our military and their families I implore you to join the Patriot Guard. It cost you nothing but I guarantee you’ll be paid overwhelmingly.

Several law enforcement agencies including the Smyrna Airport Police, Manchester Police and the Tennessee Highway Patrol helped the Patriot Guard escort our heroes back home. The people of Manchester and their Fire, Ambulance and Law Enforcement were out along the highway to welcome these Soldiers.

Coming down the highway into Tullahoma we began to see more and more people along the roads all waving and holding flags and signs. One lady that I noticed as we passed was mouthing the word WOW to her husband as all the bikes rolled by. I think she pretty well summed it up.

People were coming out of churches and restaurants to wave and show respect for these soldiers. Some of the most touching sights for me were all the old WWII era men standing at attention and saluting as we passed. The greatest generation that we’ve known are the most appreciative of all. These men saved the world. If you want to be humbled ride just one Patriot Guard mission.

Tullahoma went all out for these Heroes. As we entered the city they had two of their Fire Bucket trucks making an arch across the road. People of all ages, shapes and sizes were waving flags, signs and yellow ribbons. They had been told that when they heard the rumble of the thundering Patriot Guard escort that their soldiers would be home.
I’m proud to be an American. I hope in some small way that these Men and Women feel the love and admiration that I along with so many more Americans have for them.