SSGT William F. Manuel

My wife and I retired the American flag that flew on the front of our home when a neighbor Robert, a member of the Patriot Guard, brought me a flag to fly. This flag is very special. It was flown on the back of Robert’s motorcycle for the funeral of S/SGT William F. Manuel, Kinder, Louisiana – 1/156th Infantry Regiment, 256th Infantry Brigade who was killed in action in SW Baghdad on January 10, 2005. Every morning I step onto the porch and render proper military courtesy.

The Patriot Guard (http://www.patriotguard.org/Home/tabid/53/Default.aspx) Riders ride to honor and protect the memory of men and women lost in defense of our Nation. Here is the Mission statement of the Patriot Guard:

The Patriot Guard Riders is a diverse amalgamation of riders from across the nation. We have one thing in common besides motorcycles. We have an unwavering respect for those who risk their very lives for America’s freedom and security. If you share this respect, please join us.
We don’t care what you ride or if you ride, what your political views are, or whether you’re a hawk or a dove. It is not a requirement that you be a veteran. It doesn't matter where you’re from or what your income is; you don’t even have to ride. The only prerequisite is Respect.
Our main mission is to attend the funeral services of fallen American heroes as invited guests of the family. Each mission we undertake has two basic objectives:
1. Show our sincere respect for our fallen heroes, their families, and their communities.
2. Shield the mourning family and their friends from interruptions created by any protestor or group of protestors.
We accomplish the latter through strictly legal and non-violent means.
To those of you who are currently serving and fighting for the freedoms of others, at home and abroad, please know that we are backing you. We honor and support you with every mission we carry out, and we are praying for a safe return home for all.

God bless the men and women who serve our Nation, their families and God Bless the Patriot Guard Riders for their continued honor guard for these faithful warriors.