Sun Herald -- GULFPORT — The Patriot Guard Riders are preparing to honor Army Staff. Sgt. Johnny Roosevelt Polk as a hero when he is returned to Gulfport for burial.

The Department of Defense Monday said Polk, 39, who grew up in North Gulfport, died July 25 at a German hospital from wounds he suffered when his vehicle was struck by an anti-tank grenade on July 23 in Kirkuk, Iraq.

He was assigned to the 3rd Battalion, 82nd Field Artillery Regiment, 2nd Brigade Combat Team, 1st Cavalry Division, at Fort Hood, Texas, and died supporting Operation Iraqi Freedom.

Funeral arrangements are incomplete. His family said Polk told them if anything happened to him while he was serving in the Army, he wanted to be buried at home on the Coast.

“Please stand by to render honors to Army Staff Sgt. Johnny Roosevelt Polk, of Gulfport, MS,” was posted on the Patriot Guard Web site Monday. The Patriot Guard Riders are a diverse group of motorcycle riders across the country, who honor those who risk their lives and die for America’s freedom and security.

Ed Baker, Mississippi PGR state captain, said when they receive permission from the family, they will meet the airplane bringing Polk home and escort him to the church or funeral home. They will set up a flag line for funeral services and at the cemetery.

“We can expect anywhere from 30 to over 100 PGR members to attend,” Baker said.

A press release issued by Fort Hood Monday said Polk entered the Army in March 1992 as a cannon crewmember. He had been assigned to his team since December 2008 and had been deployed to Iraq since January.

Among his awards and decorations are: the Bronze Star Medal, Meritorious Service Medal, Army Commendation Medal, Army Achievement Medal, Army Good Conduct Medal, National Defense Service Medal, Korean Defense Service Medal, Iraq Campaign Medal, Global War on Terrorism Expeditionary Medal, Global War on Terrorism Service Medal, Noncommissioned Officer Professional Development Ribbon, Army Service Ribbon and Overseas Service Ribbon.

Among Polk’s survivors are a daughter, Mary, and a son, Antoine, who family said also serves in the military.