Our SoCal PGR in San Diego each week conduct a mission at Miramar National Cemetery to honor Veterans Without Family, a long standing mission originated by the late PGR SMOKESTACK. Very recently, one PGR did an Internet search for a veteran listed in the forthcoming mission statement. Honestly, he cannot relate what prompted the action. But, the result, a family member was located, who indeed was too ill to travel from New York State.
The PGR performed a separate honors ceremony for the veteran. Following the ceremony, PGR sent the family member the folded American Flag and THE 13 FOLDS certificate, along with pictures of the PGR rendering honors.
Monday, 21 April, the PGR received a personal note and the veteran’s obituary.
[The “card” referenced below was posted to the SoCal PGR FB page.]
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The heartfelt note:
I received your email from my cousin Amedeo Lauria, and hope that you received the card I mailed to you.
THANK YOU, AND EVERY ONE OF THE PATRIOT GUARD RIDERS for your care and brotherhood of my beloved brother Franke. I can't express enough of my gratitude that Franke has a family in the brotherhood of the Patriot Guard Riders.
I am Franke's little sister, and am the one who set up his burial from NY. Our father (who Franke cared for in his old age) Frank Lauria - is also buried at Miramar.
A cancer survivor; I cannot travel long distances due to severe lymphedema in my arms and legs. I was devastated over Franke's sudden death and heartbroken not to be able to travel to San Diego.
What you, and all the Riders have done for respect and care of Franke as a person means the whole world to me - and I know it would have to Franke too. He was very proud to have served his country and being in the military was life changing for him. I attach his obituary for you, so that you can know about the person whose memory and remains you have been such a kind steward for.
Without you, the Riders, and my cousins Amedeo and Sue, I don't know if I would have made it through the pain of losing Franke.
May you and all the Riders be blessed for your kindness, care and integrity.
Sincerely,
Tina Marie Lauria
