Patriot Guard Riders (as well as members of the Leatherneck Motorcycle Club, the American Legion, the VFW, and fellow service members) had the unfortunate honor of showing our respects at the funeral of one of our own today in Harrison, MI.
Master Sergeant Mark Carlstron, only 49 years of age and recently retired from the Marine Corps, died suddenly last week. Though I didn't know Mr. Carlstrom I would have been proud to have know him. Community leader, mentor, coach, active and caring man and citizen, avid motorcyclist, veteran; respected by all who knew him.
It was a beautiful day and the sidewalks outside the church were lined by dozens of PGR, Legion, VFW, and fellow Leatherneck MC members holding flags. MSGT Carlstrom's motorcycle was parked in a prominent place in front of the doors. It brought him joy while he was alive and it was well and good that it too was present.
Bagpipes, church bells, and the sound of Harleys were the music that honored MSGT Carlstrom's life, and his service to his community and country.
