US Navy

The Patriot Guard Riders have been invited to provide escort and stand in silent Honor and Respect for PO3 Michael Allen Steiner Backus, 22, U.S. Navy, as he is laid to his final rest on Saturday, 09 Jan 16, in Chester, WV. Michael went to be with the Lord on Saturday, January 2, 2016 from injuries sustained in an automobile accident along Interstate I79 in Braxton County, WV. An active duty member of the U.S. Navy, Michael was returning to his duty station in Goose Creek, South Carolina.  He was returning after spending the holidays with his family in Chester. 

We have been asked, along with the American Legion Riders, to provide an escort from the Arner Funeral Chapel, 607 Carolina Ave., Chester, WV (https://tinyurl.com/hkldcsm) to the Locust Hill Cemetery in Chester, approximately 5 miles away (https://tinyurl.com/hbc8epe). 

WV Ride Captains Mike Whitlatch (bumpnrun2462@aol.com) and Susan Whitlatch (nascarangel628@aol.com) are the designated Co-Ride Captains in charge of this most Honorable mission.

Staging will be at the funeral home at 1215. 

Mission brief at 1225. 

Family will arrive at 1230. 

We will establish our flag line for Michael’s dignified transfer to the hearse. 

Procession will depart the funeral home at 1245 for the short journey to the cemetery. 

Upon arrival, our flag line will be set and maintained during graveside services commencing at 1300. 

Early weather forecast is for cloudy skies, temperatures in the high 40’s with a 20% of precipitation.  Please dress and travel according to the current conditions. 

If at all possible, please put forth the effort to attend this most Honorable mission for one of our native sons who was tragically taken from us at such a young age.  Stand with us as we say “Thank You” and “God Speed” to him.

Respects,

Joe 

Joe Cumblidge

State Captain

West Virginia Patriot Guard

Chester, WV 26034