Thanks for help with Shank tribute

To the editor:

On behalf of the Patriot Guard Riders I want to thank all those who made it possible for 200 of us to help honor and pay our respects to Cpl. Jeremy Shank and his family. The folks at McCombs Funeral Home embraced our efforts and helped us in every way. Thanks to the Jackson and Cape Girardeau police for getting us in and out safely. The VFWs and American Legions in both towns and their auxiliaries were wonderful hosts. The cookies and sandwiches were lifesavers. Add that to the morning doughnuts from Houch's Donuts, Meyer's Bakery, Food Giant and Country Mart and we were able to keep everyone nourished for a trying day and a long ride back for many. Equally important was the bottled water from Schnucks and ice from D-Mart and Millersville Grocery. I don't know where all the flags came from, but thanks to Red Star Baptist Church and Do It Best Corp. for their part. A special thanks to VFW Post 3838 for allowing us to use its facility to gather and meet. The tribute paid to the Shank family by our communities was a proud moment for all of us. Thank you, everyone.

RANDY DUNN, Oak Ridge