[Congressional Record Volume 152, Number 81 (Wednesday, June 21, 2006)]
[Extensions of Remarks]
[Page E1245]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]




                  COMMENDING THE PATRIOT GUARD RIDERS

                                 ______
                                 

                               speech of

                       HON. MADELEINE Z. BORDALLO

                                of guam

                    in the house of representatives

                         Tuesday, June 20, 2006

  Ms. BORDALLO. Mr. Speaker, I rise today in support of House 
Resolution 731, commending the Patriot Guard Riders for their response 
to the unwelcome, disrespectful and distasteful protests occurring at 
the funerals of fallen servicemen across our country. America's fallen 
heroes deserve respect. America's fallen heroes have earned respect. I 
am pleased that the sanctity of their sacrifice along with the sanctity 
of each fallen hero's family and friends being able to mourn their loss 
while celebrating the life of their lost loved one in dignified burial 
ceremonies is being protected through the selflessness and commitment 
of the Patriot Guard Riders.
  Since August of 2005 the Patriot Guard Riders have protected the 
families and friends of America's fallen soldiers from radical 
protesters who have sought to disrupt a sacrosanct time of mourning and 
ritual. Clad in leather and proudly waving the red, white, and blue, 
the Patriot Guard Riders impose a daunting wall to all who attempt or 
intend to disrupt funeral proceedings. With a membership based solely 
on respect for fallen heroes, their families, and their communities, 
the Patriot Guard Riders have sought to rise above the jeers of 
protesters with the revving of motorcycle engines, thereby preserving 
the dignity of a military funeral.
  I commend the Patriot Guard Riders for their loyal allegiance to the 
principles of integrity and to the preservation of the sanctity of 
service. I join my colleagues in support of the Patriot Riders and in 
support of House Resolution 731.

                          ____________________