Sun, Jul 19, 2025 12:25 PM
Years ago, my young cousin, who was really more like a nephew to me, was killed while serving in Iraq. He had grown up playing with my children and often spent weeks at our home, so his loss was deeply personal to our entire family.
When the time came for his funeral in Pocatello, we learned that a hateful church group planned to protest. Their intention was apparently to shout cruel things, provoke grieving family members, and then sue if someone reacted. We were already devastated, and the thought of enduring that during his funeral was unbearable.
Thankfully, I believe it was the Patriot Guard was there. They formed a protective barrier between our family and the protesters. Whenever the group began making noise, the riders revved their engines so we could not hear the hateful words.
What they did allowed our family to grieve and honor our loved one without being subjected to cruelty. Their presence, compassion, and protection meant more than I could ever fully express.
Please know how deeply grateful I am. The Patriot Guard gave our family an incredible gift on one of the most painful days of our lives.
Warmly,
Lynda