Problems in Oklahoma for PGR

[Talisman]

Just recieved this from a fellow rider and thought some of you might find it of interest as well.

I'm not a member of the PGR (or any MC), but I know there are some PGR members on the site, and I appreciate what they do for our fallen VET's. I think allot of folks don't really understand the significance of the Patch, or "Color's," and that's what sometimes gets them into trouble. This guy does a great job of explaining it, and "WHY" it's important to respect others patch (color's).
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Problems in Oklahoma

Notice to all members,

We are experiencing some issues with a M/C in the State of Oklahoma.
Due to the fact that the requirements and issues between us and the M/C
are changing quickly, I am asking that if you travel through this State to
please contact one of two of these individuals below and they will fill you
in on the existing cautions and updates on displaying anything that has
"PGR" on it.

The State Captain, Mike Kittrell and his members are working hard to resolve
any conflicts so please follow their suggestions when traveling in or
through Oklahoma.

We will alert you on any resolutions to the issues that exist.


THIS IS A MUST READ FOR ALL PERSONS PARTICIPATING IN PGR MISSIONS

Effective immediately, the PGR back patch is no longer authorized for wear in Oklahoma, at anytime. Additionally, PGR flags, banners, magnets, and stickers, are not authorized to be displayed except during funeral missions for Soldiers, Sailors, Airmen, or Marines, who are casualties of Operation Iraqi Freedom or Operation Enduring Freedom (Afghanistan). Patches on the front of the garment (vest, jacket, shirt, etc.) are authorized - no PGR items should be worn on the back of the vest, shirt, or jacket. Shirts with the PGR logo in any color but BLACK or BLUE are authorized.

This ruling is due to the fact that some PGR members did not follow the original agreement put in place between the PGR and the Oklahoma Confederation of Clubs, through their agent, American Veterans Motorcycle Club (AVMC). Our actions and failure to follow a formal agreement has forced the Confederation of Clubs and the American Veterans Motorcycle Club (AVMC)(whose colors are blue and gold the same as the colors on PGR items) to restrict the wear and display of the aforementioned items.

Ride Captains will enforce this rule. Members who violate this rule will do so of their own accord and without the support of the State or National leadership. If you choose to violate this rule, you can expect that if observed by an MC, specifically AVMC, you will be directed to remove the unauthorized item.

Background and History
The Oklahoma Confederation of Clubs is an organization organized under the auspices of the National Coalition of Motorcyclists. Among their many duties is their responsibility to resolve conflicts between motorcycle clubs, riding clubs, and other groups, associations, etc., related to motorcycles. The PGR, as a motorcycle-based "group", like it or not, has to abide by the rules, resolutions, and edicts put forth by the COC. The COC itself is led by the predominant motorcycle club (MC) in a given state. As is the case of the State of Oklahoma, the COC is led by the State President of the Bandidos Motorcycle Club, Bandido Lee.

When the PGR (National) adopted a back patch several years ago, there was quite a bit of discussion (pro & con) about the need or desire for the patch. Ultimately, National left it to the discretion of the State leadership to either not allow the wear of the patch or to request permission for its wear through the COC. The COC, through AVMC allowed us to wear the patch on missions. However, a number of members have flaunted wearing the patch in venues outside the mission. In the motorcycle world, motorcycle clubs rule. We failed to follow our agreement and that has led us to this point.

For more information on motorcycle clubs, I urge you to read this link: Riding Club and Motorcycle Club Education. In the case of the American Veterans Motorcycle Club, one must understand and appreciate the level of commitment members of a motorcycle club must have. They didn't just show up one day (like the PGR) and begin wearing a patch. They've had to work hard to attain their position in the MC world (including the injury and death of members) just to wear their patches. Their current members can't just go out and buy a patch they have to earn it over a long period of time and take it very, very seriously.

So as not to put the AVMC or any other MC in a negative light, please understand that if we follow the rules and work with the MCs, you'll find that all of them (like us) are actually decent, hard working people. In the case of any veteran's MC, of course they are all vets and deserve our respect.

This ultimately is the culture we choose to operate in. Regardless of your opinion, in order for us to accomplish our mission, we have to follow the rules.

Bear in mind that no one "hates" the PGR. I have spoke personally with Bandido Lee and he stated "I like what you guys do". I have also spoke personally with several senior leaders with AVMC, Viet Nam Veteran's MC, and Leatherneck MC and they believe in what we do (they were doing it before we showed up in Aug 05). They want to work with us. But we have to honor our agreements and maintain our integrity.

Mike (Kit) Kittrell
Oklahoma State Captain

[speed]

I read about this a couple days ago. I will reserve further comment.

Cheers,
Speed

[FATboy05]

Very interesting post Talisman, I am a Member of the PGR here in Texas, but was unaware this issue to my North. I haven't riden in any Funerals as of yet, and have no patches, nor will I ever. The PGR is an outstanding, and Patriotic Organization full of True Americans. Hopefully this will all be resolved soon