In Memory Of Lloyd Laird  - 1/18/2009 

I would like to thank everyone that showed up for this event today.  I feel that it's important to show support for others in our group, especially the fallen.  It was an amazing service and even though I didn't know Lloyd very well, I felt the loss and sorrow just the same, as when the pictures were scrolling by of him and his family, photos from some STAR events that I had attended just like him.

It made me realize the fragile balance of life that exists, and how easily it could have easily been myself or any of us in the same predicament.

Then I also realized how much it meant to the family that even though riding his motorcycle had a factor in Lloyd's death, they were so happy to see all the bikes and bikers at the service.  There were around 50.  After the service many family members donned leathers and helmets, and rode on the back of some members' bikes to spread the ashes.  It was so uplifting to me, that these people still embraced motorcycling and motorcyclists.

Lloyd's mom got her first ride on a bike that day, a ride that he promised to her but couldn't deliver before he passed.  It was an amazing experience to witness this and at the last moment another family member asked me if I could take them as well on my bike.  I was grateful to say yes to them and take them to the site.  It created a really joyful moment for all and I was grateful that I could play a role somehow to make things a little better for them.

It really hit home with me that we need to cherish and treasure each other.  All of us in STAR are a big family and during good times and bad, we all all need to be there for each other and support each other as best we can, because the future is not promised to anyone and the past is but a memory.

Phil Casella - Chapter VP