Below is a message from Karoni Forrester regarding her Dad’s Funeral Service. There’s a lot of details in this message. If you’re planning to attend, please read carefully.
This is why we ride! Never forget! Say their names!
Lennie Big Red Hodson
—————— From Karoni ——————-
Hi all –
As October 7th is now just around the corner, I want to share additional details about Daddy’s funeral for all planning to join us in DC. For those who can’t make it, both the funeral and graveside services will be live streamed with the funeral home. More details on that as they are available.
First, if you didn’t the update about the start time change, the funeral service will be held at 1:30 p.m. and the graveside service will be a 3:00 p.m. The change is due to finding a creative solution to an unfortunate oversight.
For anyone planning to come that has not booked a hotel, Dad’s family and friends will be staying at the Sheraton Pentagon City (link at the bottom of the email). Many have asked if we’ve got anything planned prior to the service. I do expect people will gather around the hotel, restaurants in the area, etc. The only “official” gathering is a reception after the services.
To gain access to Fort Myer, you will need to pre-register as a guest to get a pass unless you have a military ID. The link to pre-register/obtain pass is also at the bottom of this email. My understanding is you can pre-register as much as 7 days in advance. You will need a photo ID to gain access on base, even with the pass. All passengers in/on the vehicle must also have their ID (if old enough to have an ID).
Entrance to Fort Myer should be through the Fort Myer Hatfield Gate:
Plan to arrival an hour ahead of time for access onto base (aka 12:30 p.m.)
The funeral will be held at the 1:30 at the Community Activities Center:
We have budgeted enough time between the funeral service and our entrance into Arlington National Cemetery, but JUST enough time. There is a fly-over planned (weather permitting), so our schedule has no wiggle room for visiting at that time. I kindly ask you save visiting for the reception, because we’ve got to get a move on!
We will exit Fort Myer and swing around to the front/main entrance into Arlington. We will have maps, but also – follow the car in front of you! When you get onto Memorial Drive, you’ll stay to the right and line up alongside the road as instructed by ANC officials directing traffic. Simply tell them you’re there for the Forrester 3:00 service. Yes, there is some “hurry up and wait” going on, but it’s a military base and military funeral, so it’s to be expected. Semper Gumby!
After the graveside service, we will go back to Fort Myer for a reception. It will be a nice to for reflection, to see old friends and make new ones. Your pass used for the funeral will get you back onto base. Don’t lose it!
The reception will be held at Patton Hall Community Club:
I look forward to seeing you in a few weeks! I greatly appreciate all of the love and support our family has received through the many years, and especially now as we finally lay Dad to rest. Words can’t adequately express our gratitude; know we are thankful. Please forward as appropriate.
Sincerely,
Karoni
PS – YES, motorcycle vests and jeans are appropriate attire! No concerns. I do appreciate those who asked to confirm.
Sheraton Pentagon City:
https://www.marriott.com/en-us/hotels/wasgs-sheraton-pentagon-city-hotel/overview/
Fort Myer Guest Access:
Access Control & Gate Information :: Joint Base Myer-Henderson Hall (army.mil)
