Army Staff Sgt. James Ide was laid to rest yesterday, at the Jefferson Barracks National Cemetery.  I was honored to have been able stand on the side of the street, just outside of the cemetery, as he was escorted to his resting place.

More than three hundred Patriot Guard Riders lead the procession.  It took at least twenty minutes for the last car to pass as Randy and I stood there holding our flag and crying.  I'm ashamed to say that this was the first time we have been there to lend our support and thank a fallen soldier and his family.

In the limo behind the hearse was a young woman and several small children.  Behind it was another limo with an older couple along with some others.  As that limo passed, the older gentleman made eye contact with Randy and me.  He nodded his head and waved his hand in thanks and recognition that we were there.  It was one of the most moving experiences of my life.

Thank you to all the soldiers who have fought and sacrificed everything so that I can live the life that I do.

Jeannie

I wish there were no funerals to attend, but I'm glad people like you and Randy show support for the families.

Lucky enough, we haven't had to attend any lately.  Thanks for being there for this man and his family.

carolyn

Jeannie wrote on Sep 12^th, 2010 at 7:12pm:

Thank you to all the soldiers who have fought and sacrificed everything so that I can live the life that I do. Jeannie

And, thank you Jeannie and Randy for being there to honor a fallen hero.

Sandy

Jeannie,

As the father of a son who served in Iraq, fortunately safely, I thank you from the bottom of my heart.  These kids deserve far more thanks than they are given, but they go anyway.  Your showing your care means more than you can possibly understand without having one of your own in harms way.  God bless you and Randy.

Jerry

Jeannie,

I served in the Navy, and was part of the color guard for most of my career. I witnessed the burial of countless soldiers, airmen, sailors, and marines. I cannot thank you enough for the thanks you've shown our fallen service men and women. I was lucky to have come back, the heroes did not. They and their families gave willingly the only thing they had to give in defense of everything we hold dear.

I can't lie and tell you I was stoic in my uniform and rifle. I cried at every single funeral I attended. I remembered my Grandfather and his WWII service. I remembered my uncles and their Vietnam service. I thought of the heartache and sorrow these families are going through.

My youngest brother is still serving now, and is over seas in the Persian Gulf. I hope against hope that my Mother will see him again.

A little thanks goes a long way.

Eric

Thank you Eric, for your service.  Thank your brother for me too.  I pray that  he returns home safely.

A friend of mine is married to a man that is in the Patriot Guard.  I told him of my experience.  He has invited me to ride along with him on the next mission he attends.  I hope that there are no further missions.  It is my prayer that no more soldiers will need this type of escort home. 

Jeannie

Quote:

More than three hundred Patriot Guard Riders lead the procession.

YES!!!!!!!!!  I am proud and happy to be among those Patriot Guard riders who attend funerals like this to stand guard, to hold a flag line, to provide motorcycle escort to the cemetary & to protect against the crazy Westborro Baptist hate mongers.  Far too often I have seen them with their signs.  Far too often I've cried that our best sons and fathers  have died protecting their freedom to spew their hate.

Rest in peace staff sgt. Ide.  Your sacrifice is duly noted, appreciated and may God bless his family.   :'( :'( :'(

Thank you Jeannie for posting this.


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May our sons and daughters never draw fire; may they always have following seas and blue sky; may they come to know peace in our day and in their souls. Blessings to all who serve and all who support! lance

MANY BLESSING JEANNIE AND RANDY for your Patriotism. I know, without a doubt that the family appreciated it.

In the last couple of years I have participated in numerous processions, and shed numerous tears  for young men and women who lost their lives in battle.

My God Son spent one tour of duty in Desert Storm, and this is his 3rd tour in Irag..
(Douglas.D.Anderson@iraq.centcom.mil).. Doug was slightly injured in his 2nd tour, but still went back for a third...

I just received a text message from him last Friday, stating that his unit is on their way home
(Praise God)

Also, for the last several years, I make sure that I acknowledge and greet each and every military personal I encounter. The gratitude campaign out a few years ago and I've used it every since...

Peace & Blessings
LadyLuv

GOD BLESS AMERICA!

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These men are so young.....they are also incredibly brave and among our best Americans.

They deserve all the support we can give which sadly entails dealing with some of the worst Americans.

Good posts kids....

Charlie

I did my 20.
You make me want to get a motorcycle for this 20.

Thanks Jeannie

Mike

Grinner62 wrote on Sep 26^th, 2010 at 9:41pm:

I did my 20. You make me want to get a motorcycle for this 20. Thanks Jeannie Mike

Thank you Mike, thank you very much for your 20 years of service... God Bless..

LadyLuv

Grinner62 wrote on Sep 26^th, 2010 at 9:41pm:

I did my 20. You make me want to get a motorcycle for this 20. Thanks Jeannie Mike

No.... Thank YOU, Mike.

Good for you, I am also a member of the Patriot Guard but have not been able to attend any services yet, they all seem to be during the week when I have to work. If I was retired I would not miss a single one that was local for sure.