Wreaths decorated veterans' graves last Christmas, and funds are needed to do the same this year. Photo by Art Edwards.
The sign at the entrance to Veteran’s Memorial Cemetery in Grand Junction says it all.
“This cemetery is the final resting place for those who have served our country. It is hallowed ground.”
That message of respect is tantamount to the mission of the Patriot Guard Riders, says Art Edwards, who has headed up the local group of Riders for the past 2 1/2 years. The Patriot Guard Riders got their start nationally about 7 years ago when the first casualties from the Iraq War began to come home. The Riders are invited to the funeral service grave site to ensure that respect is shown for their fallen military brothers and sisters.
Edwards, a retired Vietnam War Navy veteran, says locally there are roughly 70 Riders from across the Western Slope, representing all branches of the military. It’s not necessary to be a member of the military to be a Patriot Guard Rider, although most are. It’s not necessary to ride a motorcycle either, although most do. “I ride a Harley with training wheels,” joked Edwards, referring to the sidecar on his bike.
In Grand Junction the Riders attend the services for soldiers from all eras. “People are forgetting about World War II vets and we especially want to keep their memory out there,” said Edwards. “We’re here to show respect to all fallen soldiers and their families. That’s what we’re all about.”
The Riders attend an average of 4 to 5 funerals a week, but have done as many as eight. They can provide the Honor Guard, a flag-lined procession, a 3-volley salute and the playing of “Taps.”
Edwards would be among the first to tell you he considers it a privilege and not a burden. “If it weren’t for the people buried here, none of us would be doing what we’re doing,” he explained.
The Patriot Guard Riders have taken on a project called “Wreaths Across America.” A nationwide initiative, the goal is to ensure that a wreath is laid at every grave site in a veteran’s cemetery at Christmas time. Last year locally there were not enough wreaths to cover every grave site, so ribbons were placed instead, ensuring each soldier was honored. This year, there is a need for 800 wreaths. At a cost of $15 per wreath, the Riders have raised enough funds to cover half that many so far.
“We kept the cost of the wreath the same as last year hoping we could get more donations. We’d like to see some more businesses and organizations contribute,” Edwards said. “The Riders personally make sure that Wade Oglesby’s grave is covered,” referring to the Grand Junction soldier who died in the Iraq War.
For more information or to make a contribution, contact Art Edwards at 250-1174 or harleyroadk@yahoo.com.
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