Florida laid to rest a son today. SSG John L. Hartman, 39, of Tampa
Florida died as a result of an IED on 30 November 2006 in the Baghdad,
Iraq. He was assigned to 1st Battalion, 9th Field Artillery, 2nd
Brigade Combat Team, 3rd Infantry Division. He was serving his third
combat tour in Iraq. Like a true hero SSG Hartman chose to return to
Iraq in the place of a friend who had recently become a father. His
sacrifice was honored today by family, friends and patriots who rode
for miles to show their respect.
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Riders began pouring into the parking lot around 2 pm. They came from
all over the state. As the afternoon wore in they came by twos and
threes and sometimes in large groups. By 3 pm approximately 80
motorcycles crowded the lot and John Minch gave a briefing to the
assembled patriots. A show of hands revealed many first time Patriot
Guards. After the conference riders began to form a flag line and
positions were taken in the front of the church as we awaited the
arrival of John Hartman's family, friends and comrades.
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Many clubs and organizations were represented by the bikers. The Onecco
American Legions Riders were there in strength. As was the Vietnam
Brotherhood and members of the Defenders Law Enforcement Motorcycle
Club. Most of the riders were unaffiliated independents. Many of the
bikers knew each other from the many long rides they have made together
over the past year. Friendships forged by a common goal to honor the
fallen and their families. To let them know we care.
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Some of the riders were from other states. Ancient One rode down from
Atlanta. One couple from Missouri represented their American Legions
Riders chapter. Two more were from Texas, vacationing in Sebring and
made the journey to honor SSG Hartman and his family. The bikers
represented a large and diverse cross section of American patriots.
Many had ridden for hours to get there and most would head back down
the interstate after the service.
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Soon the service ended. Each of us said a special prayer in our hearts
for the family, friends and brothers in arms of John Hartman. It is
always difficult to loose a loved one. It is even harder loosing some
one during this time of year. God bless the Hartman family and rest in
peace SSG Hartman. Your sacrifice has not gone unnoticed and we are
forever in your debt.
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