Patriots MC Chapter II/Milwaukee Ghost Riders

In recognition of Police Officer Memorial Day and Police Officer Memorial Week, we would like to pay tribute to our fallen brothers and sisters who made the ultimate sacrifice while protecting their communities. You will always be remembered and forever in our hearts.

I don't know where they got their info about him dying, but he is still with us. This is to share his story about how heroic he was back then and still is. We are proud to call him our brother and he is also an honorable member of our club.

On January 8, 1968, Gary Wetzel’s helicopter was hit over Vietnam.

He was 21 years old.
An explosion tore through the aircraft.
His left arm was nearly severed.

The helicopter crashed into a rice paddy under enemy fire. Wetzel, a door gunner, was badly wounded. His arm was hanging by fragments. Blood covered the wreckage. Most men would have collapsed.

He did not.

Using his remaining strength, Wetzel grabbed a rifle with one hand and began firing to protect his injured crew members. Enemy fighters were closing in. He kept shooting despite shock and massive blood loss. His actions helped hold off the assault until rescue forces arrived.

His arm was later amputated.

For his actions that day, Wetzel received the Medal of Honor from President Lyndon B. Johnson in 1968.

But survival was only the beginning.

He faced years of recovery and adjustment. Learning to live with one arm. Rebuilding independence. Rebuilding identity. War had taken a limb. It had not taken his will.

Wetzel went on to work for the Veterans Administration and later in private industry. He stayed connected to fellow veterans. He rarely sought attention. He rarely told the full story unless asked.

At 21, he should have died in that rice field.
Instead, he chose to protect others first.

He lost his arm in seconds.
He carried the memory for decades.

Gary Wetzel died in 2022 at age 74.

The medal shines in photographs.
The explosion is harder to imagine.

He did not quit when his body failed him.
He kept firing to save his crew.

Courage can exist in a single terrible moment.
Its impact can last a lifetime.

Story based on historical records. This post is for educational purposes.

Less than one week away. Come out and have a great time while socializing with us and winning some excellent meats.

On behalf of the Patriots MC CHII Milwaukee Ghost Riders, we extend our warmest wishes to you for a happy new year, and we hope this year brings you peace and happiness.

Warmest wishes for a joyous Christmas are extended to you and your loved ones from all of us in the Patriots MC CHII Ghost Riders. May your holiday season be marked by safe travels and cherished moments with friends and family.

On behalf of the Patriots MC, we extend our warmest wishes for a Happy Thanksgiving to all. We encourage everyone to prioritize safety while celebrating with loved ones and to enjoy the festive meal.

We cordially invite you to our third annual meat raffle. A diverse selection of meats will be available for you to win. Additionally, we will be hosting a 50/50 raffle. If you appreciate fine meats and enjoy the excitement of winning, we believe you will thoroughly enjoy this event.

We cordially invite you to join us for our annual Army versus Navy game, an event that celebrates friendly branch rivalry. It is always a delightful occasion. We will be providing food, 50/50 raffles, and a booze wagon raffle.