Ride, Patriot Guard, Ride!: A Photo Essay of Patriotic Bikers and Their Good Deeds, Heckert Connie

Five men met in Mulvane, Kansas at the American Legion Paul Stewart Irwin Post 136 on November 8, 2005. They started a new organization, the Patriot Guard Riders, to show respect to fallen soldiers and support their loved ones at funerals and visitations. Today, the grassroots organization has grown to more than 350,00 registered members with a large number of additional individuals and families who participate in flaglines, services and parades. The original mission of honoring fallen soldiers has grown to recognizing first responders, active duty military personnel and veterans. These Americans come from all political parties, religions and work situations. They are patriots making a difference for good in their communities and states all across America.