Our resident at Rose Lane Nursing and Rehabilitation, Robert Patterson a Navy Veteran, received a wish come true through WellSpring Hospice….
Upon a visit with Wellspring Hospice employee, Rebecca Agnew, Patterson said, “I wish I could see 100 motorcycles in this parking lot.” Agnew knew this was a hefty goal, but made it her mission to honor this veteran’s last wishes. And honor it she did!
A quick call to Chris Swogger at the Warrior 2 Warrior Ministry made all the difference! A phone and social media chain with over 3k shares spread within 48 hours grabbing the attention of not only the Warriors membership, but the American Legion Riders-Kent Post 496, the Rolling Thunders, and many other veterans bike groups.
Over 500 individuals-mostly veterans, met at Rose Lane for the ride and to honor Patterson. Prior to the bike parade, the patriotic group led with the Pledge of Allegiance, a prayer and sang a quick Happy Birthday to Patterson who turned 85 a couple days later!
But then they took it a step farther! Why just have Patterson watch the bikes, they decided, let’s have him lead the group instead!
And so he did! With a special police escort thanks to Lieutenant Collins and Officers from the Jackson Police Department, Patterson rode side car on a Harley Davidson 1200 Sportster that led 215 additional bikes with a few jeeps thrown in for good measure! He was surprised to see his route lined with flags by Operation Flags of Freedom and many cheering bystanders.
After the parade was over, Patterson was treated to a reception that included his family and all his new biker veteran “friends”. Many, that had traveled a great distance-including one veteran who had flown in from Texas-a stranger to Patterson, to honor him.
The kindness and goodwill of many individuals put a smile on this veteran’s face that will never be forgotten!