Mark Tury: Tremendous show of respect for fallen Guardsman
Got a call at 8:30 p.m. Sunday night from assisstant State Captain for the Patriot Guard Riders asking me to stand a flag line in Turlock for a fallen Coast Guardsman. The United flight was on short final at SFO and the hearse was due at 10:30 p.m.
I met my fellow Patriot Guard Riders veterans at the funeral home in Turlock. I was awestruck to see several firetrucks, emergency lights flashing and a ladder truck suspending a large American flag over the street. The mayor, fire chief, police chief, police officers and firefighters were all present. The firefighters acted as honor guard as we stood with our flags.
A very professional reception by the numbers. Keeping in mind, all this happened with just a few hours’ notice; this speaks to the determination and dedication of Turlock leadership to honor its veterans. Thank you, Turlock, especially the director of Allen Mortuary, for getting the ball rolling for this outstanding reception. We stood in awe, as did the family of Petty Officer Joshua Noz, United States Coast Guard.
Mark Tury, Modesto
This story was originally published April 5, 2016 at 1:35 PM with the headline "Mark Tury: Tremendous show of respect for fallen Guardsman."