Fellow Patriots,

The Virtual Warriors' Walk was originally intended as a memorial for an active duty military hero who died during Operations Iraqi Freedom or Enduring Freedom.

Then, our beloved JonD, Central Region Coordinator, Founding Leader of the WWR, passed away suddenly.

So, the WWR had to run a very tough Honor Mission for our friend... The normal transition after the mission is over, as Jon's was Sunday, would be to move the Mission to "Completed", and eventually the post would be archived...

As I thought about doing that, it did not seem right.. Jon's Mission is not "Complete" until we welcome that last warrior home...

So, it seemed appropriate for Jon to be be among his Warriors that he so loved..  The Virtual Warriors' Walk is viewable by the whole world, and members can add posts, forever.. It will be my honor to watch over JonD's Mission post, as I do for all our fallen heroes..

Ride In Peace, JonD

-matter

I never thought the day would come where I would be posting a mission for one of our own members, especially for Jon D.  It is with great sadness that I post this mission.  Jon, through tears of sadness, it is with great honor that we stand for you Sunday as you have stood for so many.

Please know that the family of Jon D welcomes all groups to stand with the WWR for our brother Jon.  Jon D deserves the highest honors we can give him.

Pre-Stage at 0800, Departure 0815, Sunday 16 Aug 09 at:
The infamous "DC" (This is an old tradition started by Jon for all those in the Crystal Lake, Cary/Algonquin Area to meet up)
2454 IL Route 62
Algonquin, IL
(Link to above location http://tinyurl.com/JonDDC)

Staging at 0900, Sunday 16 Aug 09 at:
Chicago Jewish Funerals
195 North Buffalo Grove Rd
Buffalo Grove, IL 60089
(Link to above location http://tinyurl.com/JonDStage)

We will escort JonD and his family at 0930 to:

Westlawn Cemetery and Mausoleum
7801 West Montrose Ave
Chicago, IL 60706

Where there will be a graveside service and interment.
(Link to above location http://tinyurl.com/JonDService)

At the first Illinois WWR mission, JonD told the assembled riders that anyone who wanted to RC a mission could do so.

While Coastie will coordinate some things for this mission, in JonD's memory -every single member of the WWR is appointed Ride Captain of this mission.

Shiva will follow the services-

Shiva is a period of mourning and occurs after a burial.  It's purpose is to try to bring some comfort to the grieving family.    It is customary to visit the shiva house and allow the family to talk while you listen.   It is very appropriate to have conversations about the person's life.  "The laws of mourning free the mourner from social norms and expectations, so that the mourner can focus on the memories of the deceased and begin to heal."

Often times charitable donations are made in the memory of the deceased, and in this case, a request by the family is that contributions be made to the USO (see below).

The idea of charitable contributions is that it helps elevate the person's soul to a higher level.   It can be brought to the Shiva house.

Clergy:
Rabbi Marc Belgrad

Shiva:
Rubin-Lidawer Residence
366 North Deere Park Drive
Highland Park, Illinois 60035
847.926.8891

Memorial Contributions:
The USO - United Service Organizations
(in order to benefit our troops)
PO Box 96860
Washington, District of Columbia 20090-6860
http://www.uso.org

Also, it's also customary for all in attendance to put a shovel or 2 of dirt into the grave -- we'll take the lead from the rabbi on that one, but if they do, then it would be appropriate for all of Jon's friends to help.

*********
I've gotten quite a few calls from people asking the same questions about tomorrow, so let me post some answers here:

Should everone go to the pre-stage area at the D-C?  Not necessary, and it's not that big.  The main staging area is at the funeral home at 0900.  A few people will go there early to help get bikes and cages lined up as they arrive.

What is the proper attire?  This is a WWR mission for our brother JonD.  Wash your bike, polish your boots, scrape the bugs off your vest, and bring your shades.

Order of procession:  LEO, hearse, family, bikes, cages.  We normally have the bikes lead the hearse, but this is JonD.  He will lead.

Are all groups invited to all aspects of this mission?  Yes.

Any other questions, please call my cell at 630-400-3055.  Coastie

Lisa Moran

(Sorry Denise, I used your main post to put this up so it looks like you did it)

Wisconsin Rally point info found here: http://tinyurl.com/m2fh56
http://www.mapquest.com/mq/2-2rigcnCJ
Denise