Doc,
Those that would view it in the way you describe would probably not ask the guard to be at a funeral anyway.
I probably didn't explain my view well. The family may have said fine, sell in the parking lot. My problem is the
appearance of a particular group (the PGR), taking advantage at a funeral.
The PGR provides respect in great quantity where requested.
Donations, even on the front steps, no problem as long as it goes to the family. Most likely they do need the help to defray cost.
Let's face it, a large group of guys on motorcycles are often viewed with doubt. Some can't differentiate between "outlaw" and PGR. I'm talking about the majority of the people here and not the motorcyle community. Hopefully that perception will slowly change.
The guard volunteers to provide escort for the family and procession. The family either accepts or rejects the offer. If in the past they have seen or heard of bikers selling things at funerals, they may question the motive behind the offer. If they ask the guard to provide escort services, you can bet they are aware of what the PGR provides.
If the guard is selling things to defray their own costs and not to provide relief to the family, then they are flat wrong. Neither one of us knows the truth to that. If to help the family, let the guard riders take a small collection and put it in the collection box - anonymously.
I totally agree that this type of thing should be addressed within the guard as to whether to sell or not to sell.
If the PGR wants to continue to provide the services they do, they can't be perceived to be taking advantage. Whether they are or not.
And, believe it or not, I respect your opinion. We just happed to disagree on this thing. Who knows, maybe we'll agree on something else and shock the world.
I think that if a method selling PGR items could be done without appearing greedy, I'd vote for that.
I'm off my soap box and done.