Hundreds Gather in Missouri Town to Block Westboro Baptist Protest at Soldier’s Funeral
- Posted on November 8, 2010 at 1:12am by
Scott Baker
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You may recall that the Supreme Court recently heard arguments in a case involving the Westboro Baptist Church which often turns up to protest at the funerals of U.S. soldiers. Some how this ties into their opposition to gays.
At the time, Glenn Beck and Pat Gray engaged in spirited radio debate on the merits of the case. You can review that here.
Glenn argued that free speech rights militate that Westboro Baptist have the right to demonstrate regardless of how despicable their tactics. Glenn suggested that citizens take up action to counter-protest Westboro Baptist. There may be no direct connection to Glenn’s suggestion — but this weekend that is exactly what happened.
People in Weston, Missouri banded together on Saturday. They wanted to protect loved ones who were saying goodbye to a fallen soldier. They stood up to members of the Westboro Baptist Church who planned to protest at Sgt. First Class C.J. Sadell’s funeral.
Sadell died October 24 from injuries he suffered in a surprise attack in Afghanistan.
On Saturday, there was quite a turnout of people who wanted to keep the protesters away from the funeral.“I’d say probably half the people in Weston are here,” said Eric Moser, Marine Corp veteran.
Weston has less than 2,000 residents, but hundreds of people showed up to support the family of First Sgt. Sadell.
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Comments (193)
mjgma
Posted on November 8, 2010 at 5:19amPeaceful and bonding together to protect the memory and the families of our soldiers. Amen. I hope we see more of this across the country. Free speech is what it is and we have to have that and we can’t stop it for bad taste, but what this loving town did is a far greater use of free speech and one that we should all honor. Thank you, Weston.
Report Post »GoldwaterWasRight
Posted on November 8, 2010 at 5:08amThis story makes me proud to be an American. Bless the people of Weston for showing the true American spirit. Instead of becoming violent or hateful, these people used the same freedoms given to the malicious protesters to shut them down, using only their true strength of spirit and honor.
I truly hope this inspires more people to do the same for other military families- and to show up in peaceful numbers to protest outside the church responsible for each future attempt.
Report Post »DagneyT
Posted on November 8, 2010 at 5:07amI’ve never understood how anyone can call the Westborough people “Baptists” or “Christian”. Jesus told us to love, not hate, which is what they do! God bless the people of Weston, and others who showed up to love and protect this soldier’s family!
Report Post »grandmommie
Posted on November 8, 2010 at 9:47amIndeed, they sound like a bunch of muslims in christian clothing.
Report Post »murphytavern
Posted on November 9, 2010 at 4:40amthe people at westboro are abunch of stuoid,ignorant people that need to quit protesting AMERICAN SOLDIERS funerals that is disgraceful and I’m a baptist
Report Post »phil1765
Posted on November 8, 2010 at 4:53amI have to say I actually got choked up watching this video, what kind of dispicable people would actually want to protest a soldiers funeral, and to disguise that hatred as being a church group is beyond me. Weston I am so proud how your town stood up so that these idiots couldn’t make an already trying event for this fallen soldiers family even worse.
Report Post »TRUTHSEEKINGAL
Posted on November 9, 2010 at 2:35amTears here too..a result of wonderful comforting patriotic pride. Many thanks to the PGR‘s’ We know you always step up to protect respect and preserve honor for the fallen heroes and their loved ones .
Report Post »Linda Vigliotti
Posted on November 8, 2010 at 4:42amThis certainly is a wonderful story God Bless you all.
Report Post »Bodysnatcher
Posted on November 8, 2010 at 4:37amA group of people have been doing this for years. You have heard of us Patriot Guard Riders. Every community needs to do this. I ask just who are you talking to when you protest at a funeral?
Report Post »sissykatz
Posted on November 8, 2010 at 4:33amI think this is a beautiful story, we should all be so excited that our country is moving back to where it was.When Patriots of this country come out we can accomplish ANYTHING.What a wonder way to squealch Fred Phellps hate filled speaches.My heart goes out to srg,Sadells family and my prayers also.What a great way to counter hate by being Patrioic.I am so thankful the family got to see the American Flags instead of hateful signs.This is a wonderful story. Cudos to the people of Weston. What a show of STRENGTH. GOD BLESS YOU ALL
Report Post »Ray2447
Posted on November 8, 2010 at 4:11amHmm, I was just remembering the bitter border clashes between Kansas and Missouri in the Civil War era. Although that was a long time ago, Missouri doesn’t take kindly to these Topeka, Kansans coming in, lecturing the good folks on what’s right and wrong, especially since they are disrespecting noble, military, loved ones who gave all. One can only wonder why good Kansans don’t stand up and protest the Westboro Baptist Church in Kansas. It’s pretty much a no-brainer. These people are coming on to the home turf where Jesse James used to roam. Don’t they know the spirit of freedom that still lives in that land?
Report Post »InfantrymansMom
Posted on November 8, 2010 at 3:58amIt was the best of times. It was the worst of times. We are such a wonderful nation. I am so proud of all the folks who stood up to the foolish Phelps.
Report Post »Ray2447
Posted on November 8, 2010 at 3:57amMy homies. You go MO. No matter where I roam, Missouri will always be home.
Report Post »jreb50
Posted on November 8, 2010 at 3:54amThis is the perfect answer to the westboro group.
Report Post »RepubliCorp
Posted on November 8, 2010 at 4:27amAgree: Perfect answer to the haters…thanks Weston.
Report Post »brooks
Posted on November 8, 2010 at 3:47amI read the story and thought YEAAAAAAAAAAAA SIT THE **** DOWN WBORO! cheers weston :D
Report Post »burnteye86
Posted on November 8, 2010 at 3:21amA church’s success can be determined by growth. I wonder how much growth Westboro Baptist has seen since they started their anti American tactics?
Report Post »burnteye86
Posted on November 8, 2010 at 3:17amRight on
Report Post »LUDWIKA BRONISLAWA
Posted on November 8, 2010 at 3:15amThe best answer to ‘speech’ is more speech. I hope EVERY place invaded by those depraved individuals does the same thing. God give the families of the fallen strength and comfort.
Report Post »CatB
Posted on November 8, 2010 at 3:53amIf people are given the information — look what can be done to stop this insanity by Westboro. I would gladly go and stand up to them … all we need is the time and place and people will come from miles around and do the right thimg… stand up for our Fallen Heros. I hope that this becomes a call to action for all communities .. just tell us where and when … we will come!
Report Post »jake_hm
Posted on November 8, 2010 at 3:14amI have to wonder though: why haven’t local governments passed statutes yet banning or at least pushing those loons farther away from funerals for these brave fallen souls? best prayers and wishes for the family as well.
Report Post »pb999
Posted on November 8, 2010 at 5:13amThis is the way it is supposed to work people solve the problem not government.
Report Post »BeckFan1964
Posted on November 8, 2010 at 5:33amAmen PB99.
Report Post »God Bless Sgt. First Class C.J. Sadell and Family.
God Bless Weston and those who traveled to support the Sadell Family.
God Bless AMERICA
pamela kay
Posted on November 8, 2010 at 2:37amThis is beautiful. These people are true heroes .I am so proud to be an American and to witness such patriotism gives me the biggest tingle. Weston, thank you. You give us hope and pride in our country. To the family of this soldier, my prayers are with you. God bless you. and know my appreciation of he sacrifice our military men and women make every day. Your loved one is a heroe and will not be forgotten. God bless America!
Report Post »Anne G
Posted on November 8, 2010 at 2:37amGod, I LOVE this country and the people of Weston!
Report Post »We Are Not Alone
Posted on November 8, 2010 at 7:49amWell said, makes you proud to be an American….
Thank you Weston, and thanks to ALL that serve…
WE SURROUND THEM♥
Report Post »CYBERFOX
Posted on November 8, 2010 at 2:25amFINALLY, Someone in this country had the balls to stand up against Fred Phelps
Report Post »coffinman
Posted on November 8, 2010 at 7:59amThe PGR, (Patriot Guard Riders, ) hve been doing it for years.
jeffrey7112
Posted on November 8, 2010 at 2:14amGood for you. They have the right to as far out of line as they’d like. They are way out of line.
On the other hand, you have the right to tell them to shut up.
We can‘t pass laws against their actions because just we don’t agree.
They can suffer the consequences of their actions. Make “em suffer.
Report Post »kkfedup
Posted on November 8, 2010 at 6:38amI’m waiting for the ACLU to sue the protesters for taking the corner they had received a permit to occupy. I hope they don’t, but wouldn’t put it past them. May God’s Rest be with Sgt. First Class C.J. Sadell, and His blessings be upon the Sadell family and Westin. True patriots all.
Report Post »morganfam00
Posted on November 8, 2010 at 2:13amI am an AirForce member currently stationed overseas and I would like to thank Weston and all the supporters that came from miles away to protect this family!! I wish I could have been there. It is great to see true patriots standing against these disgusting people!! My prayers go out to the First Sgt.’s family.
Report Post »grandmaof5
Posted on November 8, 2010 at 6:04amThank you for your service to our country, God be with you and protect you. The people of Weston were soldiers in their town protecting their fellow soldier and his family. God bless.
Report Post »mamawalker
Posted on November 8, 2010 at 6:11amThank you (and to all those serving) for your service to our country!
Report Post »Lex et Libertas
Posted on November 8, 2010 at 8:29amThank you for your service!
Report Post »AmericanPatriot01
Posted on November 8, 2010 at 3:47pmThank you for your service. Be comforted that we patriots are proud of you and are doing everything we can to defend our freedoms from enemies within, while you are defending them where you are. God Bless you and we pray for your safe return.
Report Post »Spokavriel
Posted on November 8, 2010 at 2:09amAnd this is why the Haters will lose. Those who are not driven by hate to make points or score them off others tragedies are out numbered. Its still sad that it was required but hey at least this way no ones freedom was sacrificed!
Report Post »staythecourse
Posted on November 8, 2010 at 2:08amThank you Weston! My prayers are with you.
Report Post »TRUTHSEEKINGAL
Posted on November 9, 2010 at 2:15amExceptionalism is America..
Prayers and gratitude to the family and community of our fallen hero in Weston,MO.God smiled upon you.
Report Post »pattybbb1
Posted on November 8, 2010 at 2:02amVery proud of you, Weston, Missouri, and of all those that came to support our fallen soldier’s final trip. I can imagine the family was overwhelmed. Thank you.
Report Post »Colonial Revolutionary
Posted on November 8, 2010 at 6:44amFrom the Westboro Website. They will be picketing Arlington National Cemetery on Veterns Day. We all need to band together and do something about this.
Arlington National Cemetery in Arlington, VA November 11, 2010 9:00 AM – 11:00 AM
WBC will picket the Veteran‘s Day Wreath Laying Ceremony at the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier to remind this nation that God is Doomed america’s enemy and He himself fights against you. Because this nation has raised her clenched fist to God and said “We hate instruction. No! We will not obey!,” He curses you by killing your young men in their prime. Instead of worshipping their dead corpses, you ought to turn and repent and worship your God. He alone has the power to tear you into pieces and cast you into Hell forever.
Report Post »RobertCA
Posted on November 8, 2010 at 11:52amWe should block these savages anywhere they go .
Report Post »untameable-kate
Posted on November 8, 2010 at 1:50pmROBERTCA, if they show up in the west I’ll be there flag in hand. Unfortunately I can’t use four days to drive that far east and confront those animals myself.
Report Post »Taquoshi
Posted on November 8, 2010 at 2:57pmThank you. Good information. We’re too far away to do anything, but the military families and the funeral directors need to know that there is some recourse. And it’s important to call the local news stations, too, so that it gets coverage. Right now, Phelps & Company are the ones making the news, so if the Patriot Riders or anyone else is there to honor a fallen soldier, it’s very important to make sure it gets in the news. The more that people participate in this, the stronger the message will be. I don’t think we can stop them from protesting, but we sure can honor the families of our fallen by doing what the citizens of Weston, MS and the surrounding communities did.
Report Post »Taquoshi
Posted on November 8, 2010 at 2:59pmSorry, in my previous post, I said Weston, MS, and I was wrong, it was Weston, MO.
Report Post »IVillageIdiot
Posted on November 8, 2010 at 1:59amTHANKS WESTON! You deserve our gratitude, one and all.
Report Post »Robert W
Posted on November 8, 2010 at 2:38amThe Westboro baptists are fake christians.No love at all.
Report Post »Kisha
Posted on November 8, 2010 at 2:51amI love that these people did this. Absolutely amazing what we can do as American’s when we are together! Amen!!!!
I’m very sorry for the family and friends who lost their loved one. But we as American’s thank him for his sacrifice and we will not let it be wasted in vein. God Bless!
Report Post »snowleopard3200 {mix art}
Posted on November 8, 2010 at 3:21amIndeed thanks to the folks of Weston, I have heard on a radio account that one family came from australia to support those blocking out the Westboro Baptists.
This action shows the true differences between those who love peace and respect the family of a fallen soldier; and those on the other hand who are false keepers of Christianity – preaching of hate and anger instead of loving the people while showing your ideals and values by your life.
A handful of bad examples can destroy much good others do or have done.
Report Post »CatB
Posted on November 8, 2010 at 3:59amAll we need is a means of getting out the information and people will stand up against these evil people. I would gladly go and stand up to them .. Perhaps a website or facebook page where we could register and get alerts for our area … a online community that would stand up for our Fallen Heros and take the “power” from the Westboro haters.
Report Post »gopsnativeson
Posted on November 8, 2010 at 7:17amBeautiful. Absolutely beautiful.
Funny how these people turn & run as soon as they’re challenged.
Report Post »They must have really strong beliefs in what they’re doing to stick around & fight for their right to be heard, huh
TheSlugbuddies Dotcom
Posted on November 8, 2010 at 8:18amWe know lots of tithing Christians, and when we told them about this, they all said, “Rock on, people of Weston.”
Report Post »Independent Tess
Posted on November 8, 2010 at 8:39amThis is a model for all to use whenever these despicable people try to torture families of fallen soldiers.
Report Post »Seven
Posted on November 8, 2010 at 8:42amI don’t know the complete story here but I feel we are somehow cursed as a Nation due to our murder of so many children and also our legislating of homosexuality into law as acceptable. I probably would not be able to protest at our good soldiers funerals, But I do say this , we are fighting insane causes and giving our children now to be sacrificed for some people I would not give a dime for them or their cause. Why are wasting their lives for crazy politicians. We know they are corrupt and crazy. God I love America!
Report Post »tenring
Posted on November 8, 2010 at 8:45amJust a thought to even the playing field and get real attention for the plight of our heroes. I suggest protesting the Westboro Baptist Church and all of its gathering. Some folks could even join the little house of nuts and protest from within. Causing confusion and disorder is a way to slow the group down.
Report Post »Jackson
Posted on November 8, 2010 at 8:47amI suggest wearing rubber gloves, but, you can go the Westboro’s web site and see where they are going next.
Report Post »Thank you good people of Weston and others for setting this historic example. You did you job. Now it’s our turn!
5
Posted on November 8, 2010 at 9:00amThe Westboro baptists are fake Christians. Most are Lawyers and they push the Law to the limit.
I think they will be hurt some day by a grieving family member. They should hope I would not be picked for the Jury. The wrong would never do time because they would have been right or temporarily insane. I know I would if I seen them for someone I care about.
CASS CLOSED!
Report Post »SteveSD
Posted on November 8, 2010 at 9:13amTHIS is the real America.
Report Post »CultureWarriors
Posted on November 8, 2010 at 9:41amThanks Weston, MO! Fred Phelps and his clan at the Westboro Baptist Church are truly despicable. It‘s too bad that the media isn’t all over the fact that he his a life long, birds of a feather … + it’s only news when Republicans are controversial.
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=IJ3OxZhXKQ0
Report Post »pattyto
Posted on November 8, 2010 at 10:15amWe did the same thing in Gouverneur, NY. And the motorcyle patriots were there from all over the north east.
Report Post »drbage
Posted on November 8, 2010 at 10:20amHurrah! We the people stand up peacefully and champion the privileges of love of God and Country! May the fallen hero rest in peace!
Report Post »jamn2dblues
Posted on November 8, 2010 at 11:05amThank you Community of Weston and all others who came to help sheild these bad people at a time that is not needed for protest. God Bless you all. AMEN!
Report Post »terryu1
Posted on November 8, 2010 at 12:10pmI also say a hearty THANK YOU WESTON !!!! These people have to be confronted every time they show up at a fallen hero’s memorial service. I have not served but to me these are the most sincere, heartfelt and earnest memorials that are held anywhere on this globe and need to be defended and protected.
Report Post »AmericanPatriot01
Posted on November 8, 2010 at 3:38pmThis is the respect and honor that every single American Hero’s death should demand!!!
We as patriots should seek out all Hero funerals in our areas and show up in great numbers to show the respect they have earned. They have paid the ultimate price for our freedoms and each and every Hero Soldier should recieve this type of turnout. Make it a tradition not a once in a while event.
God Bless all that turned out to defend the honor of this Hero!!
Report Post »I pray for the family of this Hero, that they celebrate his life, rather than mourn his passing.
New-American-Saviors
Posted on November 8, 2010 at 11:16pmSemper Fi…. Wish I were there…with about 100 of my friends !
Report Post »thepatriotdave
Posted on November 8, 2010 at 11:39pmIt seems that we Americans are getting our spine back. In a strange way I blame/credit Obama. If he hadn’t tried so hard to ruin the country we love, we may have never got so riled-up and ready to fight.
People are starting to realize again that there is more to being an American than having the latest toy. And we seem to have reached a comfortable place where once again Americans understand that patriotism, faith, and common sense are always in vogue. Being American NEVER get’s old!
PatriotShops.com
Report Post »GardenoftheGods
Posted on November 9, 2010 at 10:32amThere is a group of Patriots that attend EVERY funeral for all fallen soldiers to stand up & do what Weston ,MO did: http://www.patriotguard.org You don’t have to ride a motorcycle to join. Check out their website, make a donation, join the cause to protect our fallen soldiers. They don’t deserve the disgusting behavior of Westboro B.C.
Report Post »UPSETVET
Posted on November 9, 2010 at 12:56pmThanks Weston for your support of the family of Sgt.Sadell’s family as they payed their last respects to their loved one who courageously and honorably gave his life for his country. I’ve been a Texas Baptist minister for almost 40 years and I have never seen anything or anyone as desgraceful as Westboro Baptist Church. Protesting at the funerals of our fallen heroes is not a part of any Baptist church ministry. To me it’s un-Christian and un-American. I’m also a USMC Vietnam War veteran that is personally offended at such disrespectful conduct carried out under the banner and name Baptist. I support the basic constitutional right of every American to pratice his or her freedom of speech, but the protests at funerals aren’t actions of freedom of speech. It’s desrespectful harasment and infringement upon the civil rights of the families and friends of the deceased and complete lack of common decency. What’s surprising to me is, until now, none of the protesters have been physically harmed or killed. Shame on you Westboro Baptist Church, you‘re supposed to be Christ’s witnesses of God’s love and not perpetrators of hate.
Report Post »StMichelob
Posted on November 9, 2010 at 3:33pmSemper Fi. Weston. Well done….haven’t stopped crying yet.
Report Post »God Bless you all, and God hold you and keep you, Sgt. First Class C.J. Sadell. Thank you for your supreme sacrifice, Sir.