A soldier from Eureka whose wife and three children reside in Howard died Wednesday, Feb. 20, in Mosul, Iraq.
The U.S. Defense Department said Staff Sgt. Bryant W. Mackey, 30, died of wounds suffered when a rocket-propelled grenade struck his vehicle.
Mackey was assigned to the 3rd Squadron, 3rd Armored Cavalry Regiment at Fort Hood, Texas.
Mackey's wife, Marie, two sons, Ryan and Koby, and a daughter, Stephanie, all live in Howard. Full military rites will be held for the serviceman on Friday, Feb. 29, at 10 a.m. in the Countryside Funeral Home of Fredonia with a military burial service following at Grace Lawn Cemetery in Howard.
He was a graduate of Hamilton High School in Hamilton, Kan. He enjoyed playing football in high school and also was a member of the wrestling team.
On April 21, 1997, Bryant was united in marriage to Marie Stapp at the United Methodist Church in Hamilton. He was a member of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter Day Saints in Independence.
Friends said he was always fun to be around and was a team-player who was dedicated to both his family and his country. They say he was well aware of the dangers of war but was proud to be a soldier.
SSgt. Mackey joined the U.S. Army just before Sept. 11, 2001, and was on his second tour of duty in Iraq. The first time he was injured by gunfire, but his friends say that wasn't about to scare him away from serving his country.
In his spare time he enjoyed watching football especially his two favorite teams, the Washington Redskins and the Kansas State University Wildcats, he also enjoyed fishing, listening to music and watching funny movies, but most of all he loved spending time with his children Ryan, Koby, and Stephanie and all of his family.
Survivors, in addition to his wife and children, are his father, Vietnam veteran Carl Lynn and Pamela June Mackey of Fredonia; his mother, Karen and Ben Nelson of Eureka; five brothers, Carl Mackey of Wichita, Adam Stehm of Missouri, Travis Edwards of El Dorado, Justin Edwards of El Dorado and Jericho Cavely of Fredonia.
Also surviving are four sisters: Monica Mackey of Fredonia, Lanesa Polten of Texas, Sherry Hurlburt of El Dorado, and Tiffany Edwards of Fredonia.
Also surviving are his grandparents, Carl and Vera Mackey of Dodge City, his mother-in-law, LaDonna Stapp of Howard, his father-in-law, John and Debbie Parkins of Wichita.
Arrangements are under the direction of Countryside Funeral Home, P.O. Box 247, 420 S. 20th St., Fredonia. Memorials are suggested to the Fredonia Library and may be left in care of the funeral home.
The fireman are getting the firetrucks all washed and ready to have at the service to pay their respects to this serviceman and his family.
My heart and condolences go out them. I never knew him or his family.. but I am proud of what he was doing for our country.
~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~
There is a rumor that the idiot and sicko Fred Phelps "might" be thinking of coming to protest at the funeral.
Apparently he doesn't like to come to the little towns as he doesn't have 'enough protection support'.
HA~~(http://www.gangsterbb.net/emoticons/disc.gif) You got that right Freddie ole' boy..
Show your nasty serpent head in this town at a soldiers funeral and it just might be the last time you'll want to protest anything like this again. .(http://www.gangsterbb.net/emoticons/fuming.gif)
Country boy (and girl) rednecks don't cotton to sickos that do the things that you do.. and I don't imagine our police force will be looking your way if you need "protective help"..
Best stay away Mr Phelps......(http://www.gangsterbb.net/emoticons/hatchet.gif)
Quote from: Teresa on February 25, 2008, 04:51:25 PM
There is a rumor that the idiot and sicko Fred Phelps "might" be thinking of coming to protest at the funeral.
Apparently he doesn't like to come to the little towns as he doesn't have 'enough protection support'.
HA~~(http://www.gangsterbb.net/emoticons/disc.gif) You got that right Freddie ole' boy..
Show your nasty serpent head in this town at a soldiers funeral and it just might be the last time you'll want to protest anything like this again. .(http://www.gangsterbb.net/emoticons/fuming.gif)
Country boy (and girl) rednecks don't cotton to sickos that do the things that you do.. and I don't imagine our police force will be looking your way if you need "protective help"..
Best stay away Mr Phelps......(http://www.gangsterbb.net/emoticons/hatchet.gif)
take a look at the pic to see what Houston does to protect our vets
with the family's permission, of course
the bikes escort the soldier from the airport to his/her final destination. and makes sure no one disturbs the services
they are called the Patriot Guard. they are all over the country
http://www.patriotguard.org/
and yes kansas does have their own patriot guard
~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~
my hearts and prayers are with the family of Staff Sgt. Bryant W. Mackey
Oh gosh.. that picture gave me goose bumps..
That is wonderful .. but how sad that we have to have escorts to keep the family's of our soldiers from being harassed.
Information on the Patriot Guard can be found at the following site, along with some heart-touching tributes to Sgt. Mackey.
www.patriotguard.org/ALLForums/tabid/61/forumid/11/postid/793707/view/topic/tpage/2/Default.aspx
If it's of any interest to all of you, the Patriot Guard was started by a member of the Mulvane American Legion. I'm quite sure someone has already contacted the family or the funeral home about being there. I work with a member of the Patriot Guard and they are very consciencous about protecting the family of any veteran in the their time of grief.
I just clicked on the link that you posted Rudy. I was crying after reading the first one.. but then I listened to the video..and I don't believe I have cried that hard in a long time.
I can't even think of any words to say right now.. so I won't say anything................................................. :'(
My heart goes out to the family of this young man. There just could never be enough done to honor him for giving his life for his country, to keep us free. As we know, "Freedom isn't free!"
God bless you all, who will be there to give your love and support to the family.
I have just visited the link of our fallen hero and the patriot guard. Just one thing to say "GOD BLESS AMERICA AND GOD BLESS THOSE WHO SERVE, GIVE AND PROTECT. And may we here at home NEVER FORGET THEIR SACRIFICE.
Amen!
God bless the United States and a double God bless our soldiers, sailors, and marines (the first to go in and the last to come out).
I heard from Shirley Black this morning that the American Legion in Howard had given $1,500 to the family of Sgt. Mackey. Does anyone know if a fund has been set up to bolster this family as they go through such a difficult time? I'd like to include that info in the paper this week.
I just talked with Legion Commander Dwight Winn who asked me to not publicize the donation. "This is what we do," he said. "It was an honor for the Legion and the Auxiliary to make a donation to help this family until the government comes through with its funding --- which it will do."
I thought that was a nice statement for him to make: "This is what we do."
We need more Americans like that.
I received this note from a friend, Bill Caflisch, in Independence:
"I understand that his body is to arrive at the Independence Airport around noon tomorrow with all the military honors. Also there is to be about 200 of the Partroit Gaurd motorcycle group here in support and to block that preacher from Topeka that protests all the military funerals."
That is so good to hear, Bonnie. It just makes me sick that he is allowed to make sad things so much sadder for the ones that have lost a loved one. Protecting the rights of all of us to have the freedoms we have that allows him to be a total idiotic ass and do what he does.
Our sincere condolences to the grieving family of one of our brave heros that has given his all for our country.
May God wrap his arms around the survivors and heal their grieving hearts.
Quote from: Dignified Redneck on February 25, 2008, 08:53:02 PM
If it's of any interest to all of you, the Patriot Guard was started by a member of the Mulvane American Legion. I'm quite sure someone has already contacted the family or the funeral home about being there. I work with a member of the Patriot Guard and they are very consciencous about protecting the family of any veteran in the their time of grief.
most interested... I didn't know it was started in Kansas.....what a great way to honor fallen heroes
I will attempt to put Sgt. Mackey's picture on here that I found on the Find-A-Grave website.
Whoa.
The tears will flow again.
Bless his heart................................(http://www.rightnation.us/forums/style_emoticons/default/salute.gif)
(http://www.rightnation.us/forums/style_emoticons/default/proud.gif)
Quote from: Jo McDonald on February 26, 2008, 11:51:06 AM
That is so good to hear, Bonnie. It just makes me sick that he is allowed to make sad things so much sadder for the ones that have lost a loved one. Protecting the rights of all of us to have the freedoms we have that allows him to be a total idiotic ass and do what he does.
(http://www.rightnation.us/forums/style_emoticons/default/ranton.gif)
The Phelps guy and other peace activists are genuine, living, oxymorons. They are exercising their first amendment rights to protest the injustice of war. HOWEVER, they only have that right because of the sacrifices made by other, better, braver, more public spirited people, IN WAR.
If they were TRULY going to reject war and the spoils of war then they would surrender their right to free speech. The truth of the matter is that they are not protesting WAR, They are actually protesting their own cowardice and inadequacy by trying to demean Men and Women who have, through their own sacrifice, showed themselves to be better people than the "peace activists" could ever hope to be.(http://www.rightnation.us/forums/style_emoticons/default/rantoff.gif)
You are so right, Birthday Girl !
I did not hear about this soldier until I got on the forum early this morning. It has weighed very heavy on my heart. My father was in the Navy. I grew up respecting all the armed forces. And to tell you the true I even thought a few times about joining, but do you know what I just couldn't. I feel that it takes very special people to serve our country. This Solider gave up so much for all of us. That is something that should be very special to each and every one of us. That preacher guy is truly just wacko!! God gave each of us special gifts in our lifes. He gave each of the soldiers that fight for our freedom something special. I believe that God has a plan for all of us, this soldiers plan was to defend the country that he and all of us love. THE USA!! I think that is a VERY SPECIAL GIFT and we weren't put on this earth to judge others. The sight that Rudy put up was just WONDERFUL!! I feel that this soldier, Bryant Mackey, deserves the greatest honors possible. If that preacher guy does try to protest it I am sure that he won't know what hit him, especially in Elk County. We are all very proud of all the sacrifics that all of the soldiers give. They are all brave, outgoing, wonderful individuals.
I truly pray for the family of SG. Mackey. I guess that his children go to Moline to school. I understand that one is in 1st grade. I hope that the children understand that the father was a hero for all of us. I just had to get all of this off my chest. If you haven't visited that site that Rudy posted you MUST!! It makes you take a step back and just slightly understand what how truly honored we, as AMERICANS, are!!!!!
QuoteThe Phelps guy and other peace activists
I would not ever EVER call Phelps a peace activist. There's nothing peaceful about him.
I was talking earlier today with Tony Signer - he said they plan on burying him here in Howard -
and will possibly have a parade down Washington. He'll let me know what a time schedule is.
As soon as I have that, I'll post it.
Thank you Debbie. I think that everyone should try to turn out for this.. even if we didn't know him.
He didn't know any of us either and he died fighting for us.
I agree with Teresa we should show his family that we mourn with them and that we honor appreciate and respect him,
and I also agree with Mom70x7 phelps is not a peace activist he is a hate monger
What a honorable gesture for the American Legion to help this family. Does anyone know of any other ways the people of Howard are going to help lift this family up, especially the young children? This is such a tragedy for them, and hopefully there will be plenty of emotional support to help them deal with their loss.
We should be so proud of this young man's sacrifice for all of our freedoms. Sometimes we forget until it hits so close to home....
Blessings to his family!
In reading the signs that these Phelpps protestors carry, they are using our fallen soldiers as an excuse to protest gays and lesbians and america's acknowledgment of them. He says God is killing the soldiers because they are fighting for a country that allows gay rights. My God doesn't work that way. Calling Phelpps a preacher is the wrong word. A preacher tells others about God and God's love. There is NOTHING christian in any kind, shape or form connected to these horrible horrible people. Have read somewhere that the largest percentage of members in this church? are family members. Course if they have a church, then they are tax exempt. God's blessing on that family that sued the pee-waddlin out of Phelpps and won. It is very hard to do, but perhaps if we all prayed hard enough for this bunch, they would come to know the real God.
Amen to that~~~
Quote from: flo on February 26, 2008, 05:04:01 PM
. It is very hard to do, but perhaps if we all prayed hard enough for this bunch, they would come to know the real God.
Doubt it.. but you can try... :-\
I can't understand this preacher dude. You are right about we need to pray for him!! But it is so very hard to pray for a guy or group of people like him. These soldiers gave so much, and the families lost an important part of their family, and this group of people show up and cause them more grief. I just can't stand that.
I have to also report this. Brooklyn Hilton comes to my daycare, she is such a wonderful child. One of Mr. Mackey's boys is in her class and the little girl is in Kindergarten. Brooklyn was talking about him this afternoon and she mentioned that another of her class mates gave him a card, and she wanted to give him one to. You know that is truly caring of a 1st grader to reach out to their fellow class mates. It brought tears to my eyes!!!
QuoteI can't understand this preacher dude. You are right about we need to pray for him!! But it is so very hard to pray for a guy or group of people like him.
Our Bible Study Sunday night was talking about when the Holy Spirit prays for us because we don't know what to say. We all focused on grief situations - such as with the Mackey family - or when an infant dies - or Judy's cousin Sharon - when you don't know what to say, so you just sit and sometimes that's a comfort and the Spirit prays for you.
Here's the stretch . . . .
Maybe with Fred Phelps, etc., we could say "I don't know how to pray for him, Holy Spirit do it for me" and then we turn the situation over, not worry about it again.
And then we do what we know we can do: protect the Mackey family as best as possible, show our support for them, share what we have. Do the small-town sharing and caring that Howard area is so good with.
On Friday, the citizens of this area have been asked to come out and honor our fallen hero by lining the streets of Washington and Penn between 11:30-12:00 - with the funeral at 10 in Fredonia, it will probably be more like 12 noon. I believe the Legion and Auxiliary are arranging this - so maybe one of them can give more details
Thank you Liz..
WIFE'S REQUEST
I was sitting alone in one of those loud, casual steak houses that you find all over the country. You know the type--a bucket of peanuts on every table, shells littering the floor, and a bunch of perky college kids racing around with long neck beers and sizzling platters.
Taking a sip of my iced tea, I studied the crowd over the rim of my glass. My gaze lingered on a group enjoying their meal. They wore no uniform to identify their branch of service, but they were definitely "military:" clean shaven, cropped haircut, and that "squared away" look that comes with pride.
Smiling sadly, I glanced across my table to the empty seat where my husband usually sat. It had only been a few months since we sat in this very booth, talking about his upcoming deployment to the Middle East . That was when he made me promise to get a sitter for the kids, come back to this restaurant once a month and treat myself to a nice steak. In turn he would treasure the thought of me being here, thinking about him until he returned home.
I fingered the little flag pin I constantly wear and wondered where he was at this very moment. Was he safe and warm? Was his cold any better? Were my letters getting through to him?
As I pondered these thoughts, high pitched female voices from the next booth broke into my thoughts. "I don't know what Bush is thinking about. Invading Iraq . You'd think that man would learn from his old man's mistakes. Good Lord. What an idiot! I can't believe he is even in office. You do know, he stole the election."
I cut into my steak and tried to ignore them as they began an endless tirade running down our president.
I thought about the last night I spent with my husband, as he prepared to deploy. He had just returned from getting his smallpox and anthrax shots. The image of him standing in our kitchen packing his gas mask still gives me chills.
Once again the women's voices invaded my thoughts.
"It's all about oil, you know. Our soldiers will go in and rape and steal all the oil they can in the name of 'freedom'. Hmmm! I wonder how many innocent people they'll kill without giving it a thought. It's pure greed, you know."
My chest tightened as I stared at my wedding ring. I could still see how handsome my husband looked in his "mess dress" the day he slipped it on my finger I wondered what he was wearing now. Probably his desert uniform, affectionately dubbed "coffee stains" with a heavy bulletproof vest over it.
"You know, we should just leave Iraq alone. I don't think they are hiding any weapons. In fact, I bet it's all a big act just to increase the president's popularity. That's all it is, padding the military budget at the expense of our social security and education. And, you know what else? We're just asking for another 9-11. I can't say when it happens again that we didn't deserve it."
Their words brought to mind the war protesters I had watched gathering outside our base. Did no one even appreciate the sacrifice of brave men and women, who leave their homes and family to ensure our freedom? Do they even know what "freedom" is?
I glanced at the table where the young men were sitting, and saw their courageous faces change. They had stopped eating and looked at each other dejectedly, listening to the women talking.
"Well, I, for one, think it's just deplorable to invade Iraq , and I am certainly sick of our tax dollars going to train professional baby-killers we call a military."
Professional baby-killers. I thought about what a wonderful father my husband is, and of how long it would be before he would see our children again.
That's it! Indignation rose up inside me. Normally reserved, pride in my husband gave me a brassy boldness I never realized I had. Tonight one voice will answer on behalf of our military, and let her pride in our troops be known.
Sliding out of my booth, I walked around to the adjoining booth and placed my hands flat on their table. Lowering myself to eye level with them, smiling I said, "I couldn't help overhearing your conversation. You see, I'm sitting here trying to enjoy my dinner alone. And, do you know why? Because my husband, whom I love with all my heart, is halfway around the world defending your right to say rotten things about him."
"Yes, you have the right to your opinion, and what you think is none of my business. However, what you say in public is something else, and I will not sit by and listen to you ridicule MY country, MY president, MY husband, and all the other fine American men and women who put their lives on the line, just so you can have the "freedom" to complain. Freedom is an expensive commodity, ladies. Don't let your actions cheapen it."
I must have been louder than I meant to be, because the manager came over to inquire if everything was all right
"Yes, thank you," I replied.
Then, turning back to the women, I said, "Enjoy the rest of your meal."
As I returned to my booth applause broke out. I was embarrassed for making a scene, and went back to my half eaten steak. The women picked up their check and scurried away.
After finishing my meal, and while waiting for my check, the manager returned with a huge apple cobbler ala mode. "Compliments of those soldiers," he said. He also smiled and said the ladies tried to pay for my dinner, but that another couple had beaten them to it.
When I asked who, the manager said they had already left, but that the gentleman was a veteran, and wanted to take care of the wife of "one of our boys."
With a lump in my throat, I gratefully turned to the soldiers and thanked them for the cobbler. Grinning from ear to ear, they came over and surrounded the booth.
"We just wanted to thank you, ma'am. You know we can't get into confrontations with civilians, so we appreciate what you did."
As I drove home, for the first time since my husband's deployment, I didn't feel quite so alone. My heart was filled with the warmth of the other diners who stopped by my table, to relate how they, too, were proud of my husband, and would keep him in their prayers.
I knew their flags would fly a little higher the next day. Perhaps they would look for more tangible ways to show their pride in our country, and the military that protect her. And maybe, just maybe, the two women who were railing against our country would pause for a minute to appreciate all the freedom America offers, and the price it pays to maintain its freedom.
As for me, I have learned that one voice CAN make a difference.
Maybe the next time protesters gather outside the gates of the base where I live, I will proudly stand on the opposite side with a sign of my own. It will simply say, "Thank You!"
To those who fought for our nation, freedom has a flavor the protected will never know.
GOD BLESS AMERICA !
It is no longer a rumor. Fred Phelps and his family will picket the funeral of Sgt. Bryant Mackey in Fredonia from 9:15 to 10 a.m. Friday. The Fredonia Chamber of Commerce is requesting that everyone in the community come out and line the street to show support for the grieving family, and for this American soldier who died on our behalf.
We can do the same here in Howard when the procession arrives, although I really doubt that the creeps will come to Elk County.
If you can stand it, here is the website that confirms the plans announced by the Westboro Baptist Church in Topeka.
http://www.godhatesfags.com/
This group has to be at the top of the list of the despicable group of people who are led by the Devil, himself!
This really is hitting home with me. I just am getting truly angry. I visited the site that Rudy put up there. I truly got the since that it was like a cult following and it just mad me sick. I have tried to settle down, but man, how?? This is a fallen man, a soldier none the less. He fought in Iraq, because he wanted freedom and peace for his family and for us. I feel like we are fogetting about the sacrafies (sp) that he has made for us. He gave up alot just to help the United States, the most honorable thing that any man could do, HIS LIFE!!! I posted the following comment on the Phelps site:
To: Questions/Comments
From: angtown3@yahoo.com (Angie Town)
Subject: Just to let you Know >:( >:( >:( >:( >:(
I am not an dumb American as you say in some of your blogs. But I think that what you do at the funerals of fallen soldiers is down right gross. Do you really think that God put you on earth to judge other people? I am trying not to judge you, everyone is entitled to their own opinion and beliefs. But what about the families of the fallen soldiers, does their feelings not come into play?? Oh, yes I forgot I am one of those dumb Americans who don't understand how you believe. I believe in God, Jesus, and the Holy Son. I am a very proud member of Flinthills Assembly of God Church in Howard Kansas. I will be honest with you, I am not the best christian. But let me tell you a thing or two, neither are you. I know that you are supposed to picket a funeral in Fredonia Tomorrow. This soldier is from Howard, which is where I am from. He has 3 little children. What do you think or do you think, that these children will think? I am proud to say that my father was in the Navy!! He fought for the rights of all of us, even people like you. I am just really upset right now to think that you have no respect for others, especially in the families time of sorrow. What do you gain? I am not trying to judge you, but if you could truly point out in the bible where it states that All Men are to judge other people, We should not show respect to are fellow man, and the main one, God Hates FAGS, as you say. I truly think you are misinterpreting what you are reading. I don't think that God Hates anyone. ??? ???
I will be praying for you and your following. I truly hope that if you come to Howard, that you will get the since that we are Christians, and we love are fellow man. Do you??????? ???
It made me feel better. I at least spoke my mind. But I feel that we, as a community should all band together and be on Wabash and Penn. Especially as Christians, we need to show our love for this fallen man, and his family. This way if that Phelps guy does come to the burial we, as christians and citizens can show are support for the family.
oh I wish I could be there lining the streets for this soldier and his family....please everyone in Elk County, line the streets, not only for the soldier's family but for those of us who cannot be there to support them
If possible, even go to Fredonia to help line the streets there.
Make sure Phelps knows we are united against him and his filth. Show him his behavior will not be tolerated.
IT would be nice if this could happen in Elk County/Fredonia
http://www.snopes.com/photos/military/kiehl.asp
How do I get to the road that the funeral procession will be on.
I am not sure of the names of streets. I know where
Wabash is.
Thanks.......
Washington is the street that runs west from the highway on the north side of the nursing home. Pennsylvania is one block west of Wabash.
That awful group (Phelps and cronies) desperately want attention. Please don't give them any. You will never change the way they think. Ignore them if they do show up. Turn your backs on them. Honor the soldier, keep him and his family on your minds. Please don't give Fred Phelps a second of your thoughts. Don't let them dilute, even for a moment, the love and honor you feel in your hearts. I expect Sgt. Mackey came through our Dover Air Force base on his way home. The returning military are treated with the great respect.
If you can, turn out, line the streets and I'll be with you all in spirit.
Are the kids getting out of school?
When the services were announced the first part of the week, I mentioned to administration that it would be good if West Elk could support the family. They were going to check into it, to see if it was appropriate.
I have forgotten to ask what the results were.
Someone this afternoon said the kids were told they could go with their parents.
Anyone have any other information?
Or an exact time?
I did call the city office in Howard, and Pastor Robin Haines to see about the time. The funeral is at 10:00 in Fredonia and the Patriot Guard can't go over 35-40 miles per hour on 400, so they were guess between 11:30 or 12:00. Becky told me and that Danny was going to get a call from the funeral director when they hit 99 and by word of mouth they were going to try to tell everyone. I am going to try to take my daycare kids and go down by the court house to honor SGT. Mackey and his family. I do know that all the businesses in town are shutting down to pay their respects for the fallen soldier. If you are out and about or know someone in a business maybe they could call you. I would call you if I find out a closer time, just email me or something, my business number is 374-2420. I haven't decided really how to explain to the kids about what we are going to do, but I will figure it out. I just want to honor this wonderful man who gave so much for us. So, that is all that I know!!
As for the school getting out, I didn't get any note from Severy Elementary, but I did hear that if they wanted to go that they would be excused. Not sure if that is right, but that is just hear say. I think that it would be so awesome, because these children are part of the school system. And to show that we respect him would mean alot to his family. This family is pretty new to this community and we need to welcome them with open arms, not only because of their loss, but because that is just the right thing to do. But I am not to keen on the school system, and I expect that they will not dismiss school especially after all of the school that they have.
If you see me taking pictures, please don't think I'm being disrespectful. I want to make sure the family gets plenty of photos showing the huge turnout of community members, friends and fellow veterans.
For the life of me, I can't think where the cemetery is located. Anyone help me out?
Rudy, go a block West of Main Street and go South, past the Swimming pool and follow the road West, at the corner just West of the Fairgrounds the cemetery will be on the South or to your left.
Frank Winn
Rudy, as an added note, drive up some time for Memorial Day. The Avenue of Flags is beautiful. Yes, we have seen Caney on that weekend, and it, too, is beautiful, but the Howard Cemetery has small flags on all of the veterans' graves as well as the auxiliary, and also they have a small cedar sprig with 3 poppies on the grave. Then, the large flags line the front and the roads of the cemetery.
I'm sure the family will treasure the pictures that you will be taking. That is very nice gesture.
Myrna
Yes.. That is what I was going to post this morning too Rudy.
Kjell and I will be filming..and will make a tribute video to put on the forum.
I hope people don't look at it as anything but total respect for the family ..and sharing this soldiers last ride with others who were unable to pay their respects.
Diane.... I wish I could tell you that I will be able to ignore Mr HateMonger IF he shows up..
I will try.. really I will... but I can not promise anything. :-\
Surely our law officers will step in and not allow him to cause and entice a riot..( Isn't there charges you can file against someone for that? ) I am surprised someone hasn't but a boot in his ass before now.
I might be worth my first night in the county jail just to do it. ;D
I am sure though that he won't come here.( he can't be THAT stupid)
If he does, I hope the family is kept protected and won't see him.
;D ;D ;D talk to someone from Fredonia and see how they are handeling Mr. Phelpps
Do you know something that we don't know, Flo?(http://www.rightnation.us/forums/style_emoticons/default/unsure.gif)
Actually I talk a big line.. but I would be the one who would try to stop anyone in my family having a stupid attack and starting a fight with the moron.
But then again.. if one was started.... and it looked like they needed help... sighhhhhh I would probably jump in the middle of it.. :-\
Hopefully noting will happen and the jerk will stay away.. and the family will be more than protected.
(http://www.rightnation.us/forums/style_emoticons/default/usabiker.gif)
This is not official, but I was told by a good source that the Fredonia statutes cannot stop a protest, but can tell them WHERE to protest, so they have designated a spot at the opposite edge of town, around a ditch that is full of water.
I hope you heard right.
If that same law is in effect in Howard I think you should give the Phelps group a nice open place to protest at the Sewer plant which is were people, S_ _ _ like him should be.
Frank
Mark just called and they called Derek and have called the fireman to get ready. That they have left Fredonia, and will be here in around 30- 40 minutes.
Go to it folks! My heart is with you. :'( :-*
word from Fredonia is that the Phelpp's didn't stay in town long. I shall never, in this lifetime, ever see anything to equal the dedication of the Patriot Guards. I did not count, but they must have been from all over the country. Someone mentioned there were a lot of out of state tags, anyhow. If you watched that and kept a dry eye, then there is something wrong with your heart. God bless them and the one who they protected today.
It was a beautiful sight, all those bikes with the American flag flying going down the street. By the time I thought of my camera, they were too far away. I didn't count the bikes but I would estimate at least 300.
I think that there is one good thing that has come from the hatred of phelps and that is the Patriot Guard
We have it on video footage.. I will do the video this afternoon and get it up as soon as I can. Teri got some footage from the highway.. so I am waiting on Danny to bring her camera. We were not down on the main strip because they came right by my house on Pennsylvania...so we were out in front..and there were people clear down the road on both sides..
We didn't go to the cemetery, as we both really didn't know what was "crossing the line" in video.. Even if it is a "memorial video" to honor.. I felt that the cemetery time was more private.
The funeral procession was 3.3 miles long with motorcycles 2 deep. John Wiseman was standing outside with us here and he was counting and he thought that he counted around 187 bikes. Plus all of the Trooper and patrol cars and the civilians cars and the uniformed military in vehicles..... You couldn't see that and NOT cry. I had so much pride inside my heart that I thought I was going to literally burst open.
I started crying as soon as the first batch of Patriot Guards came by the house. And then Rochelle and I lost it when the family's limo drove by and we saw Bryant's little boy staring at us with his little face pressed against the window. I can't even see to type right now for the tears ..remembering those wide little sad eyes...
There is thousands of little children without their daddy's... :'( :'( :'( War is truly an ugly ugly thing.
I know that SSgt. Bryant Mackey was proud and honored today as he spiritually held his family in his arms and watched this procession honoring what he gave for his country. He can move into the light now, knowing all will be fine and that the angels and God will hold his children and family in their loving care.
If anyone took snapshots.. would you mind sending them to me on e-mail in the original size ..
and I will add them to the end of the video as a slideshow.
I didn't take snapshots.. and I wanted to be uptown when they came through, but when the first batch came by the house, we just stayed here in front.
But I would love to have some pics to add to the video.. If you wouldn't mind sharing.
Thanks..
T
One of the Patriot Gauard belongs to the Legion there in Howard. I met him at the Chili-Soup Feed Saturday night. He retired from the Navy as did my brother Dwight and Dwight wanted me to meet him.
Frank
more than likely you are on video also, Teresa. I was at the corner as they turned onto Washington and one of the Patriot Guards was taking pictures. Also saw cameras in the windows of some cars. I didn't go around to see the north side of the fire truck, but was told it was draped with a large flag. The corner was lined with minerature flags, and I and my son in law waved the flags that I fly on the graves of my late husband and his father. They were both veterans and this was to honor them and show not only my respect but their respect for another veteran. I thought about my camera to get video before I left the house, but decided against it. Thought paying my respects was enough and the memories I have in my head will last a lifetime. Will enjoy your video when you have it up and running,.
Teresa - I have several pictures. I will email them to you as soon as I get home and upload them.
It was truly an awesome sight. I am so proud to live in Howard, Kansas. I, too, shed many tears this morning. I am so wonderfully thankful for everything our soldiers do.
It was truly an amazing site!! :) ;) :D I hope that the family feels the love that I felt from all around town. I stood just down the road from Teresa, at Fechter Pet Care, and I want to tell you that there were people down at Tyler's house, too!! I did not make it down town, but Devyn told me that the street was lined with little flags!! She said it was really neat. I am have to say, we at citizens of Howard should feel honored. We got to pay respect to a man that TRULY deserves it. I saw the children, just at a glance. I couldn't look to close, I didn't want to scare the children that I was watching, and if I cried I was afraid that would scare them. But I am fighting back tears right now. That was very emotional!! My father was retired from the army when he died and our country does give veterns the respect that they deserve. I just never in my life have experienced anything like this!!
I WOULD LIKE TO GIVE A BIG GROUP HUG TO THE COMMUNITY OF HOWARD AND ALL THAT CAME TOGETHER FOR THIS WONDERFUL MAN AND FOR THIS FAMILY!!!!
Howard is truly a place I am proud to say that I am from!!! :D :D :D
Oh, yes, I overheard one of the Patriot Guards talking and they said that there was not many protesters in Fredonia!! I hope that is right!! I hope they will soon learn something about the acts that they are doing is wrong- but as the saying goes, YOU CAN'T TEACH AN OLD DOG NEW TRICKS!!
Thanks a million Deveyn.. I really wanted some of the pics from the downtown part. I could just smack mysellf for not going up myself and getting some.
I will wait until I get them to do the video. It might be tomorrow before i get it done and up.
I will make a DVD copy and take it over to the family later on this week.
The Patriot Guard that you are talking about, was it Julian, I can't remember his first name. I say him in the group!! He is from Moline. His wife works at the nursing home. Is that the man that you are talking about?
Quote from: frawin on February 29, 2008, 02:13:11 PM
One of the Patriot Gauard belongs to the Legion there in Howard. I met him at the Chili-Soup Feed Saturday night. He retired from the Navy as did my brother Dwight and Dwight wanted me to meet him.
Frank
Randy Julian was riding with them.. He is the son of Russell Jullian and they all live in Moline.
Anita Julian is his wife and she is a nurse at the Twilight Manor.
Wonderful people. Love 'em both.
Teresa, that is so nice of you to be willing to do that for the family. This is so new and raw for them. They are going to need all the support they can for awhile, especially if they are fairly new to the area. You are all super people...I'm proud to know you.
We were up town at Washington and Wabash. The Legion Auxilliary passed out small flags so that everyone could honor the Sergent and his family. I will never feel quite the same about bikers, it was truly an awesome sight when the first group came through to set up the cemetary. Then when the flag bearers came accompnying the hearse and the family cars it was an impossible task to keep a dry eye. There was a group of West Elk students across the street. I was so proud of them, they all waved their flags and stood very still and quiet as the procession passed. It was hard to believe these were the same kids who were jostling and joking such a short time before. God send comfort to this family and this community and this country.
I am proud of my home town, too! Also the city I have lived in for the last 50 years!
I understand that the Patriot Guard hang out in Wichita!
Hard to not feel after that emotional experience....Feelings of pride for being an American and the patriotism. Feelings of remorse for the family of our hero. Feelings of hate for those who condemn him.
It is very important for everyone to understand that freedom is not free. It comes with the highest cost of all. Kiss and hug all of your loved ones that you can. Know that is a privilege that we all take for granted too often.
I am very proud of my town, just as I knew I would be.
The Howard Fire Department would like to thank Dwight Winn for letting us use the flags for the fire trucks. It made the roadblocks look very nice and it wouldn't have been the same without the large flags from the Legion. THANKS DWIGHT!!!
Another Big Thank You to the townfolk!!!! As someone who grew up here and lives here, I have never heard more positive things about our community than I heard today from police, military, and fire personnel. Very proud day in someone's hour of need.
Dan
The flags the WEHS students had came from the classrooms.
Just before the bus left the school, Mr. Ireland and several students went through the school, borrwoing the flags from each of the classrooms. I thought it was a great idea!
And I was pleased the school provided the bus transportation for the students who wanted to participate but had no transportation of their own.
It was great cooperation all the way around.
This was all during lunchtime, so the schedule was adjusted for those who attended.
The kitchen staff had to change lunch schedules slightly.
Bus drivers were found.
Teachers volunteered to monitor the students on the bus.
Other teachers volunteered to remain behind to cover classes for the teachers and students who did not go.
I'm very proud of the school, administration, teachers and students.
I'm very proud of my town and my community.
My son, Andy, and I were honored to be among those lining the streets in Howard on Friday. Andy shot some good photos and I sent four of them to Teresa for whatever use she may find. We'll also try to print color photos in the Flint Hills Express next week. What a day.
I first thought I would have the video done the next day. That changed as my computer was so full I couldn't work on another video until Kjell "cleaned it up"
So in the meantime, I got the extra footage from My daughter in law, Teri's camera. I got some photos from Rudy, and one from Devyn that I love and will use. ..and then since Kjell was going to clear my computer on Monday, I talked to John Robertson and Phil Schussler and they gave me some pictures to use.. and now I am waiting on a call back for some other pics from the family.
So I am working on the video and as soon as it is done, I will have it on here.. Hopefully before too long.
This was posted by one of the Patriot Guards on their site.
MISSION COMPLETE There was a great turn out for SSGT. Mackey. The weather was good for a bike ride to honor a fallen HERO and his family. It was a day full of surprises. Surprise #1 When I arrived at the staging area at Bacani conoco, east of Fredonia, Ks. The first surprise was that the towns people had taken up a collection to pay for ALL of the gas for the Patriot Guard, Bikes and cages. I did not do a count, but I guess there were 250-300 bikes and 20 cages. (That's a lot of gas) Thanks Fredonia, for your support!! Surprise #2 At the riders meeting, after "Darkhorse" had maybe embarrassed his wife by giving her some well deserved recognition for coming up with this crazy idea to start the Patriot Guard in the first place, We were honored to have a one star General from the 3rd. Calvary stop by to thank us for our support of his and all of our tropes. Thank you Sir for the kind words. It was also announced at the riders meeting that SSGT. Mackey's brother was a (I believe) Master Sargent with the Kansas State Troopers and that they would be joining us to honor SSgt. Mackey and his family. Thank you gentlemen for your support. Surprise #3 The RC had about 50-60 of us form a flag line around the UG'S at the edge of town and while standing the line a group of teenage kids came up to join us, holding signs like "THE REAL GOD LOVES AMERICA" and "GOD LOVES OUR TROOPES". I had to go shake their hands and thank them for supporting our country. Surprise #4 (Well not really, after all this is the Heart of America) After we broke the flag line, we moved on to the cemetery to set a flag line there. Every intersection on the 38 mile ride was blocked with LEO support. Thanks to all of the City, County and State Law Enforcement that help make this a safe and honorable ride for SSGT. Mackey. As we rode across the rolling hills of Kansas, every intersection and farm house had people standing and waving American flags.
End Report With respect............ "Window" AKA "SHOT"
What a great report! The people of Southeast Kansas did just a great job of honoring the fallen hero and his family. Thank you all!
Wow! What can one say, how powerful. Again it reminds us of what citizens, being in one accord, can accomplish. God Bless all of you who participated in this.
I am so proud to live in this area...............thanks to all who got to go.
My heart was there..........and I can't wait to see the video.
God bless America
Thanks for sharing this Teresa, those guys did a great job! I hope Sgt. MAckeys' family received some comfort from all that support. God bless each and every one!
The "In Memory " video of Bryant Mackey is up and on the forum in the video section of this site.
You know... I didn't know this brave soldier and had never met him.. but this was extremely hard on me to make this.. :'(
It touched my heart so deeply.
I hope I did him and his family proud..
http://www.cascity.com/howard/ectv.htm (http://www.cascity.com/howard/ectv.htm?bcpid=958623447&bclid=958764824&bctid=1447922209)
Teresa, this is just a beautiful video, and tribute. You did a fabulous job of putting it all together. Thank you. (As I sit here sobbing!)
After viewing for two minutes the video stops. I have tried several times and it stops as they are turning the curve. Is is my computer? I've never had this problem before. Any suggestions?
mine stopped at 2:43 - going to try it again
Strangely enough, I didn't have any problem with the video stopping.
Teresa, that is absolutely awesome and a neat and special tribute to this young man that gave his life for his country. I am sure that his children will cherish this video their entire life. This is a tribute to all men and women that have served their country and the people of Howard, Elk County and Kansas should be proud of the turnout for this solemn occascion. Myrna and I both had tears watching this one. A job well done Teresa.
Frank Winn
P.S I didn't have any problem with the video playing.
It is your internet speed. You might want to pause it.. go do something else.. and wait until it downloads.
Another thing might be that your internet connection might time out.
Kjell says to pause until everything is downloaded..
Mark and Sandy just watched it at the store and had no problems.
I was able to view the entire video (through alot of tears). Thanks so much, Teresa, for this moving tribute to Bryant Mackey and his family. Rodney and I made the trip to Howard that day to help with the American Legion's contribution to the services and were so honored to see the uplifting support that our hometown gave to this soldier and family that few of us knew personally. Thank you Elk County! This was truly an honorable show of respect for one who gave his life for our freedom.
Wow, best video yet.
I did very well, managing to keep my eyes from watering until about the third frame or about 12 seconds into the video.
Community did a wonderful job of lifting this man up and showing the support we have for our soldiers. We all need to keep this family in our prayers as they move forward without a loved one.
Very touching and I am so proud of Elk County and all the patriot gaurds for showing their respect for our fallen local hero. No dry eyes here.
Thank you.
Words just can't describe it!!! Teresa!! Wonderful!!
As I wrote to you privately, I am so proud of your work and I am sure the family will cherish this video. For them to be able to view the motorcade and the loyal support shown for their beloved family member, will be something they will hold dear in their hearts forever.
I was able to view the video without any pauses. It was difficult to see through my tears.
Well done, honey. You and Kjell do such a wonderful service for all of us through this forum.
Thanks !!
The video is a marvelous tribute to SSGT. Mackey and his sacrifice for our country. I am sure his family will cherish it. I know the oldest son and he is extremely proud of his father and this video will let him see that this community valued his father's contribution to our country. Ryan (Sgt. Mackey's oldest son) is one of the most Patriotic souls that I have ever met. God bless SSGT. Mackey and his family!!!
WOW...what a wonderful tribute to the soldier and his family. Wonderful job sister. You are truly an angel in disguise. I am so proud of you and Kjell and all the wonderful heartfelt things you do for everyone and all the lives and hearts you touch. I love you both and I know the family that will receive this video will treasure it for the rest of their lives.
Thank you.
Teresa, as usual, you have done a fantastic job with this video and it will be something for this family to treasure. Since I had seen it in person, except for the cemetary portion, I was able to look at it and remember this awesome sight. We were standing beside the road out by the nursing home and seen them as they came into town and tears flowed then, I can assure you. You can't feel that much patriotism without shedding a tear and knowing they were doing it for a fallen hero. HOWEVER, when the video got to the end and taps played while you showed views of the gravesite, the flag and the marker, that's when I lost it. What a wonderful tribute. Thanks for all your time and efforts. God's Blessing on this family left to mourn.
Wow!. What a wonderful tribute. As always, wonderful work Teresa and Kjell!
Thank you for a beautiful video.
I did have problems watching it, it would play for an instant or two and then
act like it was still loading and then start again for a word or two.
I guess I may have to get Lazy Bear to come visit when I get a little money ahead.
Not enough this month for extras......so will put up with it.
Angels on your pillows and God bless
Thank you again everyone.. I'm glad I could do it for him.
Judy.. Start the download.. then go into the other room and go do something and then come back after awhile and it should all be downloaded and ready to play. It is most likely your internet connection
Thanks to everyone who contributed to the presentation and a very BIG Thanks to Teresa and crew for putting it all together. It was a wonderful tribute and I am very proud of my hometown for the support and tribute paid to our fallen soldier. The Patriot Guard was a great tribute also, but all of you deserve a big hug for your support. Thank all of you.
Our family want to say a great big THANK YOU to Rudy and his son for all of the wonderful pictures in the Flint Hills Express, what a tribute,we have always been proud of our town and its people, but seeing it all in print does our hearts good. To have this newspaper and be able to share it with our family around the world who do not have internet makes us feel very proud of everyone who made this very special tribute a reality. God Bless everyone .
Wow, Teresa and Kjell!
I am so proud of you for putting this wonderful video together.
Thanks so much.
Rudy
Well, Ms. T, I was able to view the video and felt such pride that my friend is so talented that she can make memories for a family. I hope that you were able to burn a CD for the Mackey family to cherish. I was asleep when all the Patriot Guard, Kansas Highway Patrol, etc., came by the house. I didn't wake up until the Patriot Guard was leaving town. By watching the video, it was as if I, too, was there. I am so proud of the Kansas Highway Patrol that came to the funeral because this fallen solider's brother, Carl, is a state trooper. That just shows how highly regarded Carl Mackey is with that highway patrol. He is a wonderful trooper and was a good deputy when he worked for Greenwood County. I am so sorry for the Mackey family's loss which is also the loss of the United States as are all of the men and women who have given their lives in this war, so another country can have a taste of the freedom that we have. I thank God everyday for our country and especially for the wonderful friends I have in the world.
I delivered the DVD to Maria today. She was very very gracious, and thanked me for making it.
I will tell you that she is a beautiful woman inside and out and is trying very hard to be strong.
She has to , as she has 3 young children to raise. Her mother lives with her and is also so nice and warm hearted. Even under the circumstances, I enjoyed visiting with these 2 lovely ladies.
You can tell that mother and daughter are close and love each other very much. We are lucky to have people like this in our community.
Although Maria is very sad and her heart is breaking, she is so proud of her husband, and said that she knew him well enough to know that even if he had known this outcome, he loved his country and believed in his purpose so much that he would have gone back over there and done exactly the same thing.
Takes a brave and courages man to do that... and a kind and loving wife to continue to support him ,even after he is gone.
May God and the Angels bless this family as they are healing.
I did a little browse at the Patriot Guard website today; very interesting! Good going guys!
A very good friend of ours was with the Patriot Guard, John Simard. He would have been in the line but passed away Jan. 2, 2008. John was a truly good person and is missed.
I got this today in an e-mail...
I wanted to share it with you:
As Co-captain of the Kansas Patriot Guard, I just want you to know, this is the most beautiful and touching of any video that I have seen to date, nation wide
What made it so wonderful is the support and involvement of the Howard community. The communities like Howard are so amazing! That is what makes them so wonderful and a great place to raise a family. I will say that I may be somewhat prejudice, because I have been a constant visitor to Howard since the 70's when my good friend Lloyd Zimmerman moved there, but I am sure that is really not the case. Thank you very much for what you do.
Greg "EBay" Hansen
Kansas American Legion Rider Area Director
Kansas Patriot Guard Co-Captain
And this is another one I received:
Please send my best regards and thanks to those who put the video presentation together honoring Sgt. Mackey.
It is absolutely the best one I have seen yet!!!! It was so beautifully done.
Being a member of the Kansas Patriot Guard, it confirms that what we do is the 'right thing to do'.
Lynette Stenzel, Ness City, KS
it's great to read these remarks. I'm sure that they also realize that we, same as them, did not do this for recognition, but because we love our country and wanted this fallen hero to know our appreciation for what he gave.
This video link has been sent around to quite a few people. It was viewed over 700 times yesterday.
By this video circulating, Bryant Mackey and all fallen soldiers are being honored.
Makes all the hours I put into making it soooooooo worth it...even though my heart was breaking the whole time. :'(
But to have people's positive reactions makes my heart swell with pride and patriotism for the United States.
that this video is being viewed by so many is heart-warming. I personally informed my sisters, my aunt and a couple friends about it so they too could view it.
I will send some of the e-mails that I get.. as I want Maria to see them when she checks this thread. She has every reason to be so proud of her husband.
Just viewed the video of SSG Bryant Mackey's funeral. The video was sent throughout the State of Wisconsin via the American Legion Riders. This was, as they all are, a very moving sight.
Thank you for making this available for others to peruse. Our thoughts and prayers will be with this family in their time of loss. Hopefully the children will someday understand what motivated their Father to do what he did. His memory will be honored by every veteran for all time.
D. L. Jansen
MSG MPC RET