This is being posted as a Non-mission event.
The Patriot Guard Riders have been invited to attend a Kickoff Ceremony for the construction start of two new homes for wounded heroes on 4-Nov, 10:00AM, American Legion Post 172, 601 Clark St, Fairplay, CO 80440. Flyer for the event is attached.
We were asked to participate or lead a motorcycle escort for these veterans to the ceremony, but I reluctantly declined due to distance and weather concerns traveling to and in the area by that time of the year. I did not want to commit riders then have to back out at the last minute. That said, they still extended an invitation to any of our members who would like to just attend the event.
Homes For Our Troops is a privately funded 501(c) (3) nonprofit organization that builds and donates specially adapted, custom homes nationwide for severely injured post 9/11 Veterans. We have done multiple events and Key Ceremonies with them in the past, and will be invited to the Key Cermonies for these homes also, when they are presented to the veterans.
If any members are available to attend, it would be appreciated by the Veterans and Homes For Our Troops. I am arranging to have coins and pins sent to the event to be given to these home recipients.
On June 15, 2005, during his first deployment in Balad, Iraq, then Staff Sergeant Lowen was injured during a mortar attack. Despite injuries to his wrist, leg, ribs, and sustaining a traumatic brain injury (TBI), Brian continued to actively serve, retiring as a Sergeant First Class. In between surgeries on his wrist and leg, Brian deployed an additional six times to Iraq and Afghanistan. Brian considers it a battle won that he left each deployment on his own two feet. After 20 years of service, Brian decided to have his right leg above the knee amputated. If you would like to learn more about SFC Lowen, please visit: www.hfotusa.org/lowen
On November 11, 2004, during his deployment in Ramadi, Iraq, Army SPC Jordan’s vehicle was hit by an improvised explosive device (IED). A friend who was part of the QRF (Quick Reaction Force) performed life saving CPR on Eric. The blast resulted in multiple injuries including spinal cord injury (SCI), paraplegia, and tinnitus. Eric says he does not remember much about his transport from Iraq to Walter Reed Medical Center. Being from Tampa, he was ultimately transferred to the Tampa VA where his recovery was trying and difficult. He had to cope with not being able to walk and could not put his thoughts into words due to his TBI. After several months of therapy and strong determination, Eric was able to speak again. He continued private therapy which focused on building his body and confidence back. The program empowered Eric to feel strong and renewed. To learn more about SPC Jordan’s story, please visit: www.hfotusa.org/jordan
