PERSPECTIVE: Patriot Guard serves families at military funerals

Regular readers of this column know our efforts to write about the topics of interest in an unbiased way.

It has been our hope to keep readers informed on what is happening in the state political arena and allow you to form your own opinions.

However, a military funeral in Southwest Missouri reminded me of an issue which I felt strongly about when the General Assembly debated several years ago.

In 2006, the Legislature passed two laws aimed at restricting the activities of a group of sick minded individuals from Topeka, Kansas.

These people protest at military funerals holding signs and chanting words entirely inappropriate for the funeral of a fallen hero. Even worse, this group uses women and teenagers to conduct their activities under the pretense of church and First Amendment protection.

I was proud to cast my vote in favor of restricting this activity and would do so again today if given the opportunity.

Unfortunately, both laws were challenged in court, and after a series of hearings and appeals, both were struck down as unconstitutional. The group continues to appear at military funerals and invade the privacy of grieving families. They had planned to be in Lamar, Missouri on Saturday for the funeral of Pfc. Dylan Reid.

In response to the activities of these individuals, a group of motorcyclists have formed an organization known as the Patriot Guard.

Their membership nationwide exceeds 200,000 and many states have their own chapter. They will come to military funerals only at the request of the family for the purpose of occupying enough space so the protesters may not intrude on the family.

Locally, the Patriot Guard has appeared in Jamestown and Russellville to provide their services. I have observed this organization in person and they conduct themselves with dignity, professionalism and decorum befitting such a solemn occasion.

They agreed to be in Lamar Saturday at the request of the bereaved family. While I am disappointed some people choose to call attention to themselves at the expense of others, I am proud of the individuals who have once again answered the call and belong to the Patriot Guard.

Please be reminded of Election Day on Tuesday. I am asking you to join me in going to the polls and casting your vote. We already have the best system of government in the world and with your participation on Election Day it becomes that much better.

As usual, I can be reached at State Senate, State Capitol, Jefferson City, MO, 65101 or 573-751-2076, or [email protected] for your questions, comments or advice.

State Sen. Carl Vogel, R-Jefferson City, represents Missouri's 6th District.