MN Patriot Guard Members,

We just had the annual Patriot Ride, sponsored by Dennis Kirk. The ride is the only real fundraiser other than sales from the MN Patriot Guard (PGR) on-line store. Therefore, it's important that the event is successful. We don't have final numbers yet, but with all the people at the ride I will assume it was a great success.

During the ceremony we were reminded of our mission by the words of the Kennedy family as they told us the impact we had on their darkest days.

I want to mention just a few things about couple of other Organizations. As you know our scope of what we do is funerals for our fallen heroes either KIA (Killed In Action), Active Duty (In a branch of service at time of death), or a veteran that had at one time served to protect the freedoms we have today.

We also attend Military send-offs and welcome homes. We do this only on invite and unselfishly by going to the mission and staying focused on why we are there - HONOR, DIGNITY, and RESPECT. It isn't about any one of us or any group in our organization; it is about who we are standing for and their family.

It doesn't mean it stops there. The MN PGR stops there, because we focus on what we do best and other groups take it from there.

TTT (tribute to the troops) is a great example (many of the Patriot Guard are also members of multiple groups). The TTT does remembrance missions of our fallen heroes since 911. It is an awesome experience to attend their missions.

Another group would be the Honor and Remember group honoring the memory of all veterans. Attending their mission is another great experience.

If possible and you have time outside the MN PGR, I would recommend checking out the other groups to continue the mission after we have done ours. You won't regret it. Just always bring your sunglasses to hide the tears.

Tim Leonhardt
President, MN PG0