Patriot Guard Riders

The Patriot Guard Riders are a motorcycle gang with a mission. Although at first glance members may appear indistinguishable from outlaw motorcycle gangs, their activities, goals and purpose for existence has nothing in common with outlaws.

The Patriot Guard Riders began in 2005 when members of the American Legion Riders heard that the Westboro Baptist Church was protesting the funerals of fallen veterans. The church members feel that the death of soldiers is God's judgment for the United States' war with Iraq and Afghanistan. At funerals for veterans who have died serving in these wars, the Westboro Baptist Church routinely yells hateful things, holds signs and generally tries to disrupt things.

To combat these disruptions and show support for the families of the diceased, the Patriot Guard Riders form a physical barrier around the funeral. By displaying large American flags, or simply by force of numbers, they can prevent the protesters from being able to effectively display their flags. When the protesters yell or taunt the victim's family, the Patriot Guard Riders sing patriotic songs or rev their motorcycles. Since a large part of their motorcycles sport Harley Davidson performance exhaust, the sound is generally deafening and renders the protesters ineffective. The Patriot Guard Riders only appear at funerals by invitation of the family, so as to avoid the risk of being perceived as instrusive.

Although the vast majority of the Patriot Guard Riders are avid motorcycle enthusiasts, they welcome non-riders to their ranks. Membership is free, and the only requirements are a willingness to be patriotic and defend the dignity of fallen soldiers. Increasingly, the Patriot Guard Riders have expanded their missions to include protection for the funerals of law enforcement and firefighters. Joining the Patriot Guard Riders will give you the opportutnity to support the troops in a real way.