On January 4, 2010, after a brief Holiday visit home, E5 OS2 Mark Piercy USN, departed to return to duty in Afghanistan. We welcomed Mark home in mid-December, and now he will be back with his unit until another brief visit home in June, and hopefully home to stay in October. Mark was scheduled to fly out at 12:40 PM, but his flight was delayed until nearly 2:30. I’m sorry that I was unable to stay until that time, but with Mark were his parents, aunts, uncles, cousins, girlfriend, about a dozen members of Warriors’ Watch Riders, Friends of the Forgotten Northeast Wing, and Soldiers’ Angels PA Chapter 1. Also there to send this young American Hero off with Honors was Chief Jerry Brearton, Retired Command Chief of Navy Operational Support Center, Avoca, PA.

In addition to Mark’s sendoff, we got to welcome Tom “TomtheBuster” Armbruster on his first mission as a WWR member. Tom is no stranger to these missions, having participated as a member of Friends of the Forgotten, but had been a WWR member for less than 24 hours at the time of the mission.

Mark Piercy can be assured that we will be waiting for him again in June, and then in October, and we wish him Godspeed and safety, and we wish blessings to his family for having raised such a fine young hero.

Respectfully Submitted,
Al “Bluesman” Philo

Coining and flag presentation in Feasterville, PA for:

WWII Vet     Joe Cannon   (Army)
Korean Vet   Fred O’Neil  (Army)
Vietnam ERA  Wick Fox     (Navy Air)
Vietnam Vet  Lee Cannon   (Army)
Iraq Vet     Gabe Fox     (Marine)

Also another Marine down the street from the mission was brought up front and coined, however I did not get his name. It was a cold, windy day but we still had a great turn out with 5 bikes and riders all looking like Darth Vader. The rest were in cages. No LEO’s were available but everything went smoothly with Penndel and Trevose Fire Departments assisting us.   One truck was at the lead and one truck was at the end followed by the Fire Chief’s truck, all with sirens and horns announcing our arrival.

The Cannon, O’Neil and Fox families never stopped talking about it all night long. Channel 6 News was a pleasure to work with and the coverage looked great on both the 6 and 11 o’clock news. Short but good! All my THANKS to everyone that made this day possible!  WWR you’re the greatest!

Thanks to all again, This was truly a very special day.

Regards,
Lee Cannon – Ride Captain

It was an early morning and a little different than the normal way we do things for a fallen veteran escort.  We met at Rose Lawn Cemetery without the family, just the Warriors’ Watch and the Funeral Director.  George, the ex-husband of my friend Maria, was at a holding area, waiting services.  We mustered up 8 bikes at the pick-up area and then headed over to Camp Parks in Dublin.  When we got to the front gate they ushered us thru and we parked along the side to wait for the family.  As the Limo pulled up we escorted George and his family up to the Chapel. Once the services were over, we headed up to Sacramento National Cemetery where the Navy conducted the final services for George including flag folding and taps. Farewell Sailor … Farewell.
Respectfully Submitted by Fred “Spike” Schau

Nick Scolari had just signed up with the Marines and was getting ready to leave for boot camp. The WWR riders headed down South into Campbell, CA, approx. 45 miles to send this hero off in style.  We staged at a local AM/PM under overcast skies and prepared to pick up Nick at a local eatery right down the street. Nick’s stepdad “Chuck” put this all into motion, with the help of MaMa J and, along with Nick’s mom, MaryAnne was totally stoked about doing this for Nick.

We rolled over to the Eatery to meet up with Nick and some of his family, parked and about 10 of us headed inside.  As we walked in I announced that we were looking for a Marine. Nick stood up and said, “That’s me, I guess.”  He was very much shocked that we were there for him and remarked, ” I haven’t even been to Basic yet1″.  Our reply was, “We know, but you signed that dotted line and did what most won’t do. We want to make sure you understand that we care about what you did.  A lot of people in this country respect your decision. Now, get your coat and let’s go!”  LOL

He was totally oblivious to what was happening and we told him that we wanted to escort him to his Dad’s.  NOT was a Italian club, where ALL his friends & family were. We setup our escort staging with 15 bikes and 3 Cages and rode across town into San Jose, right through downtown.  When we got there ,everybody was outside waiting. We wished him good luck at Basic, told him how proud we all were of him and told him we would be waiting for his return. He then got the traditional WWR Mug ‘n’ Hug routine.  Semper Fi, Recruit Scolari!

Respectfully Submitted by Fred “Spike” Schau

Ride Report posted for Chambeaux

Robert Wolff served in the Air Force Feb 1981 until he retired in Feb 2005 as a Chief Master Sgt. He entered the Air force as a jet mechanic, served in Desert Storm and was stationed in Japan, Alaska, Louisiana, Florida and retired when in south Carolina. CMSGT Wolff’s sister felt he never received the thank you that he so deserved and requested a drive by. His sister is none other than our own Lisa (Stalker). Lisa and I arranged for the drive by to take place on December 27th. Much ice and snow that day so we had to resort to the cages but the turnout was still fantastic. We staged at Lou Malnati’s and with a little help from Yvette (Camera Nut) and Otto (Otto) we arrived right on time.

Bob was surprised and smiling ear to ear as we lined up to shake his hand, thank him and give him a hug. As a bonus Lisa’s dad was on hand. Lisa’s dad is a retired Chicago Police Sgt and served in the Navy. Both were coined and thanked for their service. Afterwards they joined us on our next mission that day. It was my pleasure to meet and thank these men. Lisa, you have every right to be proud of your dad and brother! Thanks for inviting us to honor them.

Ride Report posted for Tim

On December 26, 2009 Warriors Watch Riders had the honor of escorting Cpl. Justin Rexrode, a 2005 graduate of Bucks County Technical School from his home in Pennwood Crossing to his Welcome Home party at Bailey’s Bar and Grill in Bristol Township.  Included in the escort were the Fairless Hills and Falls Township Fire Companies and the Falls Township and Bristol Township Police Dept.   Justin was met by his friends and family at Bailey’s.  There he was also mugged and hugged by the WWR and was presented with our Magic Coin.  He was also Welcomed Home by Maria from A Heroes Welcome.   

We were also informed that Justin’s three uncles were Viet Nam Vets and they were presented with coins and mugged and hugged by 3 of our Viet Nam Vets, Handyman, Lee and George D.   Before leaving Bailey’s on the damp, rainy day, a fifth, yes a FIFTH soldier was trying to slip through the crowd of people.  He returned from Iraq 2 weeks ago.  He was stopped and coined by T and thanked by all for his service.  He thought he didn’t deserve it.   WRONG!

Thanks to all my WWR Brothers and Sisters for coming out another nasty, wet day to welcome our Hero home.  Thanks also to the Maria, from AWH, Falls Township Police Dept., Fairless Hills Fire Co., Falls Fire Co. and the Bristol Township Police Dept. for their help and support during this escort.

First, thank you LCPL Huot for your service and stepping up to keep me and my family safe here at home. Thanks also to your parents for bringing up such a nice young man.  What a mission!  Snow cover all week, then last night the temps go up and no more snow just a ton of rain.  We met at Interboro High School which, as far as I could tell, had so many vehicles that we filled 3/4 of the parking lot.  We may have had at least 75 people, maybe more.  We had our ride briefing and then set our flag line that covered the  length of the parking lot on both sides of the row.

Barney Huot lead his son on his motorcycle along with our Hero and then his family behind them.  I presented him with our honor coin, wished him luck, then the Leathernecks MC presented him with one of their coins.  At this time I just got out of the way and let this very large crowd hug and mug our Hero.

Our escort arrived at the Prospect Park Police Department along with the Chief of the Norwood Fire Department and they led us to the highway.  I think we were running a little ahead of schedule because there was no LEO at the entrance to I-95, but in true Warriors’ Watch fashion we moved forward with the mission anyway.  What an awesome sight it was in my rear view mirrors!  We made our way to the Delaware state line and again no LEO, so we just trudged on.  For as many vehicles as we had, we managed to change lanes when necessary and kept together without much trouble.  As we continued the weather just got worse the guys on bikes were getting pounded.

As we approached the Delaware tolls, traffic was getting very heavy and, as Ride Captain, I made an on the fly decision to break off the escort at Rt-896 before the toll booths.  Barney and I were discussing it on our bikes on the fly and he agreed.  Without LEO support and with the bad weather, I felt it was the right call.  As we pulled off on the exit ramp our hero waved goodbye.  Everyone had large smiles and I believe everyone was very satisfied with our effort.  Mom had a big grin and Dad kissed me.  Most of us took the back way home up Rt-40.

I now need to give out my thanks and bear with me as there are many.  First to the guys that braved the weather and rode beside me – Bonehead , Tug , Focker , Billy Bananas, Barney and Hatter,  you guys are hard core.  My hat’s off to each one of you.   Now to the many organizations – Second Brigade MC, Leathernecks MC, True Brothers Of The Road MC , Upland Garage Motorcycle Organization, Patriot Guard Riders, Bullets MC, Road Runners MC retired members and A Hero’s Welcome.  Thanks to the members of New Jersey, Pennsylvania, Delaware and Virginia Warriors’ Watch chapters.  Marine Corps League, Dunkin Donuts Norwood Crew , and friends from Biker or Not.  Thanks also for our media coverage from CBS 3and Fox 29.

If I missed anyone, I am truly sorry because each and everyone one of you deserve a pat on the back for toughing out this weather.  You all make me proud to be part of the Warriors’ Watch Riders.  For those that could not attend, you missed a good one.  I’ll be home drying out for about a week!

Respectfully Submitted – Rabbit

Crockett, CA – 11/7/2009

It was an early staging time at 0600 hrs.  We staged with 7 bikes and 3 more were to meet us along the way.  Crockett is a small town on the edge of the Delta by the Alfred Zampa Memorial Bridge.  The event – Walk of Honor for our Veterans is a fundraising event, sponsored by Conoco Phillips SFR Rodeo Refinery and executed by Vietnam Veterans of Diablo Valley.  All the proceeds will be used to help our Veterans.  The goal is to generate funding to help make a difference in the lives of Veterans – past, present and future.  “Together we can and will make a positive contribution to Veterans and their community.”

We picked up the Huey and headed towards Crockett, taking the exit the back way down a two-lane road.  We were to park across from the refinery at “the old homestead” where the Huey would stay there for display throughout the event.  We were treated to lunch as participants arrived and registered for the walk across the bridge.  There was a tremendous amount of participation from the community, the refinery and the bay area – both Veterans and non-veterans.  Once the event concluded, we secured the aircraft and escorted her back to her parking spot at Buchannan Airfield.  Fred Guetterman R/C’d this mission due to Spike having a Navy Drill that weekend.  Great Job Fred!  Bravo Zulu!!

Respectfully Submitted,

Fred ” Spike ” Schau

Tracy, CA – Welcome Home  SSgt. Rachelle Renaud,  12/23/09

It was clear and cool as we staged at San Bruno, near SFO.  Dad, riding his Night Train, and his best friend joined us to welcome his hero home.  Four bikes and a cage made the quick trip to the PD Parking Courtyard near the terminal.

We set up at the baggage claim stairwell, and our hero slipped past us, directly into Mom’s arms!  As she turned, she began to realize there were some “strangers”  there for HER, as well.  We mugged and hugged her and marched out to the bikes after Dad and his friend retrieved her luggage, Rachelle beaming the whole way.  Bystanders took notice and thanked her as we made our way back to the parking area, too!

She was amazed at the welcome, and couldn’t believe we were doing this just for her.  We got her settled in Mom’s cage and with Dad proudly riding lead with me, set out for the ride to Tracy, about 60 miles.  San Francisco traffic turned it into a chilly 2 ½ hr. ride. Dad took the lead for the last few miles, skirting the edge of town.

Rounding the last curve, the Tracy Fire Department ladder apparatus was clearly visible and flying a 10 x 12 high above the house.  The street and surrounding yards were filled with friends, neighbors, reporters and Firefighters.  Cheers and hugs brought Rachelle home in style, this time.  After serving  12 years, 2 tours in Iraq, 18 mos. Korean DMZ, and several other high level missions, this Bronze Star and Audie Murphy Award recipient finally got a true Hero’s Welcome Home!

Shaking and a little misty, Rachelle stared in wonder at the flag and light displays. “How did this happen? How do you do all of this, just for me?”, she asked. “A couple of well placed phone calls, and we want you to feel like a rock star.” I answered. After catching her breath, she told the crowd, “This is like a rock star times a million!!”

As I coined her and explained the symbols on the WWR coin, she told me she couldn’t help but think of her Fallen Soldiers, her troops that paid the ultimate price for our freedom, and it was like they were getting welcomed as well.  This is truly an awesome Soldier.  It was an honor beyond compare to bring this hero home.

Respectfully Submitted,
txbiker/Chrome Ghost

Ride Report posted for Joe Alger

Click here for a great Newspaper Report that  gives a good “ride report” for this welcome, but Joe Alger adds:

“…The only thing they didn’t say was the fact that we gave Matt surprise sendoff back when he left for deployment in November 09.

When we pulled up and I went over to pay my respects to Matt he reached into his pocket and handed me back the WWR coin I gave him before he deployed.

Matt told me he kept that coin in his pocket for every one of his perilous flights….His Dad later told me he had over 700 flights.

I like to think that coin bought him some luck.

The coin itself looks great, but the plastic pouch is brittle worn and tattered.

I gave him a new one and I will keep the one he gave me always…or at least until we get a WWR museum…..His Mom Betty also sent me a little note which is below the newspaper link…Matt’s brother also served for 5 years as an interrogator and linguist.

Ride report posted for Glen

“I was the only one to welcome him home the last time he was home on leave”, said Adams mom.   SPC Army Medic Adam Gade was coming home after being injured in Iraq.

While on patrol, Adams humvee was hit with an IED.  Adam quickly regained his wits and was able to use his medic training to save the badly injured humvee gunner. 

Adams mom requested the WWR and Operation Welcome You Home Illinois to give him a well deserved Welcome Home.  This Welcome Home had a few challenges to work out.  Adams flight had an ETA of 2300 hours and he lived 2 hours away in Indiana.  His family was coming to pick him up at the airport, so we thought it would be great for us to meet him at the Terminal Gate.  A local bus company donated a driver and bus to take us from the staging area to inside the airport. The bus dropped us off at arrival terminal where we were met by volunteers of the USO that led us to the terminal gate.  Due to the heavy snowstorm and flight delays, Adam finally arrived at 0030.  The flight crew arranged for him to be the first one off of the plane.  A big smile of suprise was on his face when he was greeted by his family members and all of us waving US flags and shouting “Welcome Home Adam, Welcome Home”.  We presented Adam with the WWR Honor Coin and beads and a framed announcement from Operation Welcome You Home Illinois.  Everyone thanked Adam for protecting our freedom with many hugs and well wishes.

After several delays and schedule changes, John “Jr GI” Fowler finally arrived at the Watres Armory in Scranton, PA at about 5:45 PM, Tuesday, 12/22/09. He was among about a half-dozen young American Heroes on the bus, which had made several other stops before making it to Scranton, to the home of the 1st Battalion 109th Infantry, and the 2nd Battalion 103rd Armor.
John is the son of WWR’s own Lisa and Artie “Norton” Flescher, VP of Friends of the Forgotten Northeast Wing. Family members of John and the other returning heroes waited in the cold and wind, and the sound of the police escort sirens announced their arrival.
On hand with flags, and the traditional “mugs and hugs”, were members of Warriors’ Watch Riders, Friends of the Forgotten Northeast Wing, and Soldiers’ Angels PA ch 2.
Local ABC TV affiliate WNEP TV News was on hand to interview and recognize these Heroes.
Our young “Jr GI” is off to celebrate his homecoming and Christmas with family and friends. The greatest Christmas present for all!

Respectfully Submitted,
Al “Bluesman” Philo
Warriors’ Watch Riders PA State Coordinator, Northeast Region