How do I describe this mission? Well,
how would you describe Rod Foley? A contradiction in
so many ways, yet steady and true all the way.
Confusing? Well, now you understand my feelings.
Confused that this man could be taken from us so
suddenly. Confused that I should cry harder at his
funeral then I did my own Dad's. Confused that I
still don't understand why he touched my life so
much. It was a day of great sadness, yet a day or
great joy. We did truly celebrate Rod's life more
then we mourned his passing. I believe each of us
will mourn in our own way, in our own time. And time
is something we all need. To any PGR's there that did
not know Rod (and I'm not sure there were any), but
if so, I want to assure that we don't normally act
that way at a mission. The flag line was full of
laughing and talking. There were many riders that did
not stand the flag line at all or, like me, for only
a short time. The silence and respect to family we
normally show, was replaced by the comradrieire of
and love of each other that Rod himself help teach
us. That Rod showed us in so many ways. A Hero? Damn
Right Rod Foley is a Hero. A hero in uniform, a hero
in leather and a hero in life. Thank you, Rod for all
you gave me in the short time I knew you. Thank you
to all my brothers and sisters that were there in
body and spirit. July 4th will forever have new
meaning. The blazing fireworks will always bring
memories of a man that lived life large and proud. A
man that truly, Lived to Ride and Rode to Live. God
bless you, Rod. Your Brother forever: Groundhog
Dad, you still ride on in my heart,
and it's obvious to see how many people you have
touched. The many soldiers, who gave their lives to
keep us free, now have the opportunity to thank you
face to face. And you couldn't have left us at a more
fitting time. Now, whenever I see and hear fireworks
on the 4th, they will also be for you. You were, are,
and will ALWAYS be forever with me and with all of
the people who were graced by your presence. Thank
ALL of you for your kind and supportive words in this
time of need. R.I.P., Rod Foley July 4th, 2007.
Your son, Rodney H. Foley II
Prayers go out to all PGR Riders, I love what you do.
Rod, There is nothing more I can add
the comments above speak volumes as to the person you
were to so many people.
Thank you for your service to our
country and the Ohio Patriot Guard Riders.
Bob Woods
Ohio State Captain
Patriot Guard Riders
