Vets wo Families June 15,2011

On 06 May 2011 Twelve (12) Gold Star Mothers will be honored for their sacrifice to our freedom. The PGR has been asked to attend and form a flag line during the ceremonies. The PGR will stage near the event at 188 Chatam Circle, Corona CA. The PGR will then ride in as a group.

This invitation comes directly from the Gold Star Mothers who have expressed the desire to meet with the members of the PGR that attended their Hero’s services.

Gold Star Mothers 2011

This was  be the first Wednesday of the month. On this day we will be remembering those that have given the ultimate sacrifice in the defense of our country and for our nations freedom. Their name, rank, age, hometown, unit and where they were lost, will be read off. We are also expecting some members of 3rd Batt. 5th Marines to be in attendance. For the past few months the wives have been driving up from San Clemente for the service. Now the husbands are home and are looking forward to attending. So, if possible, we are going to do a final roll call for 3/5, call out the members that did not return. Start time, 1800 hours. Semper Fi, Mark.

A personal friend of a member of Seal Team 6 was also present and collected mementos to be sent to the team.  Marilyn found a picture at a home decorating store which I took and had everyone sign.  It's an honor to think that this may end up on the wall at their home base.

Orange Traffic Circle 5 May 11

The family of SPC Justin Christofferson and Jessica Christofferson has requested the Patriot Guard Riders (PGR) honor their loved ones with a Welcome Home this coming Wed., 4 May at Ontario Airport.   As we were leaving the airport there was a Navy Corpsman standing at the curb so we were able to welcome home another hero.

Justin and Jessica Christofferson

The family of Paul E. Bean has invited the Patriot Guard Riders to attend and participate in his services and military honors. Paul was born in 1927 in Sands Springs, Oklahoma. Paul served in the U.S. Navy from July 1944 to June 1946 and was assigned to the USS Clearfield, a Haskell class attack transport ship, during WWII as a Amphibious Assault Landing Craft (AALC) pilot. His missions included landing our military on Okinawa, Le shima and Iwo Jima. Paul transported hundreds of men into harms way, surviving fighting the enemy on the way in and out. Paul's group of AALC's was instrumental in setting up airfields for the 34th Fighter Squadron on Japanese held islands.

Paul always thought of himself as a glorified water taxi driver. He said the young men he prayed for before he dropped the ramp were the real heroes.

The USS Clearfield (APA-142) was in Tokyo Bay during the Japanese surrender. During WWII the USS Clearfield survived 108 air attacks and returned home proudly flying her colors. Paul was awarded the American Area Campaign, Asiatic Pacific Theater, WWII Victory and the Philippine Liberation ribbons.

Paul married Myrna in 1961 and lived in Buena Park for 30 years. Myrna, the love of his life, passed away on Dec 31, 2010. Paul is survived by 2 daughters Sherry Bean and Linda Dolan, son Terry Moffitt and 3 grand children.

Paul E. Bean

Three (3) American Heroes, Wednesday 27 Apr 2011, Riverside National Cemetery, Riverside, CA

On Wednesday 27 Apr 2011, three (3) American Heroes and the spouse of an American Hero will be honored at Riverside National Cemetery. Their cremains have been left at RNC for burial recently.

The honorees are:
Lester James Graham, age 83, U.S. Nave, WW II, Korea, Viet Nam, Alden N. Godfrey, age 87, husband to Lt. Col. Elvena M. Ulrich-Godfrey U.S. Air Force, Byron Craig Weaver, age 75, U.S. Air Force, Korea, Michael Summers, age 68, U.S. Marine Corps, Viet Nam

The PGR were the family for these men and will held a service for them including full military honors at Riverside National Cemetery,

102MSDCF

The wife of Larry M. Glennon has asked that the Patriot Guard Riders (PGR) stand in honor of her husband's honorable service to his country at his services at Riverside Nat'l Cemetery this Wednesday. Mr. Glennon served 12 years in the U.S. Air Force achieving the rank of SSgt (E-5). He served in Vietnam in the later part of the war at Bien Hoa Air Base, the largest airbase during the war. After leaving the Air Force Mr. Glennon worked for 20 years at March Air Force Base as a builder/plumber.

Mr. Glennon passed on 4/8/11 after being hospitalized with severe Alzheimers at the V.A. Hospital in Loma Linda, Hospice Unit. Mr. Glennon and his wife Rosanna were married for 20 years and lived in the Highland area. Mr. Glennon is also survived by three step-children, Darla, Lynn, and Christopher and 3 Grandchildren.

Larry M. Glennon

On Wednesday, 20 Apr. 2011, thirteen (13) Vets Without Family were honored at Riverside National Cemetery. Dignity's Rose Hills mortuary brought five (5) vets from Los Angeles County and eight (8) vets' cremains were left at RNC.

The Veterans are: Faber Franklin J 78 USMC Korea, Owens Milton 84 USA WW II, Rawles Franklin D 69 USA Vietnam, Richard Mark 75 USA Korea, Dipaola Richard 64 USN Vietnam, DeBlase William 92 USA WW II, Burns Allen George 83 PFC USAAF WW II, Sheehan Jr Edwin Patrick 87 USA WW II, Mayse Howard 76 A1C USAF Korea, Attical Tommie Lee A1C USAF Vietnam, Hamson Jeffrey 65 Sp4 USA Vietnam, Gonzales Fernando 71 A2C USAF, Fingerhutt Daniel 86 USN WW II

The PGR was there for these Veterans and held a service with full Military Honor

2011-04-20 Veterans without Families Apr 20,2011

The Patriot Guard Riders have been invited by the command of the 2nd Battalion 1st Marines "Ghost Battalion" to welcome home their warriors from Garmsir Dist., Helmand Prov. One of most deadly areas in Afghanistan. As a whole, 2/1 was almost perfect at finding IEDs, having discovered and disposed of more than 94% of those they've encountered. Over the last 7 months thsese Marines and Sailors have been hit almost as hard as the 3/5.

This is the first welcome home the PGR has done for this Company and the CO and FRO are very excited about it. In fact, they are not telling the families about the escort for an even bigger surprise.  The unit itself will be returning over several different dates this month, this being the first contingent to return.

If you have ever rolled into a camp with the buses behind you and see the joy and excitement on the Command, and the families faces, you know the feeling you experience. If you have not, the Welcome Home's are something you need to participate in to understand the importance that it means to the warriors, families and the command. To see the "new dads" hold their child for the first time is a feeling that cannot be described.

These welcome homes are very special if you happened to be the lucky Marine or Sailor that has a family to welcome him or her home. Those of you that have attended these might have noticed the few guys or gals that go off by them selves. These are the ones that need the support and the best that we can give them as they have no one there to say "Welcome Home", "we missed you", and all of the other greetings that their comrades are recieving at the same time. Let's make these Marines and Sailors feel like "Rock Stars".

Please bring your flags, smiles, hugs, cameras and open hearts for these brave Marines and Sailors.

Welcome Home Marines

SPC Clark was on active duty at Ft Hood TX when he died March 26 from injuries sustained from a motorcycle Vs Nissan Truck accident in Harker Heights, TX.

SPC Clark was deployed in support of Operation Iraqi Freedom from February 2009 to January 2010.

SPC Clark's awards and decorations include the Army Commendation Medal, National Defense Service Medal, Iraq Campaign Medal with campaign star, Global War on Terrorism Service Medal, Army Service Ribbon and Overseas Service Ribbon.

Robert Clark

The family of Randall "Randy" Reihart, a Patriot Guard Rider, invited the Patriot Guard Riders to attend and participate in his Service and Final Military Honors.  This was a church service followed by an escort of approx 28 miles to Riverside National Cemetery. Randy proudly served in the Army for 3 years from July 1964 to August, 1967 during the Vietnam Era.  Randy spent most of his working life in the aviation industry, and was a proud member of the Christian Motorcyclists Association and the Patriot Guard Riders.  He is survived by his loving wife Cheryl, his children, and grandchildren.

Randall Randy Reihart

The family of Charles Essex requested the presence of the Patriot Guard Riders (PGR) at his services. Charles entered the Navy in 1952 and served his country honorably until 1956 achieving the rank of Machinist Mate 3rd Class. Charles also served in Korea.

Charles is survived by his wife Jocelyn of 20 yrs. He is also survived by 6 children and several grand and great grand children. Church services for Charles will be held at Carpenter's House on Arrow Hwy, Fontana, CA on Monday between the hours of 1030 and 1230. PGR will provide a flag line at Riverside Nat'l Cemetery where Military Honors will also be conducted.

Charles Essex

The family of Richard G. Valle have requested that the Patriot Guard Riders attend and participate in the Services and Final Honors of their loved one in Upland, CA at St. Josephs Catholic Church with a short escort (4.2 miles) to Belleview Memorial Park in Ontario, CA for his Military Honors. Mr. Valle served in the US Army for 4 years active duty during the Korean War and was stationed in Germany working on the aircraft that flew into the combat zones in Korea. Mr. Valle was awarded the Korean Svc Medal, U N Svc Medal, Nat Svc Medal, and Bronze Svc Medal. Mr. Valle is survived by his wife Maria, 10 children, 32 grand children, and 7 great grand children. Four of the grandsons are currently serving in the military and 3 of them were able to make it home for his service and will be there with us to honor him.

Richard G. Valle

On Wednesday 30 Mar, the PGR held services at Riverside National Cemetery for four (4) Veterans Without Familes.  Full Military Honors were rendered.

The veterans are: Nicholas Search, age 60, U.S. Navy, Viet Nam, Roy Caywood, age 68, U.S. Navy, Viet Nam, Joseph Chapman, age 84, U.S. Navy, WW II, Philip Deloria, age 59, U.S. Marines, Viet Nam, From Valley Oaks Mty, James B. Savin, age 69, U.S. Air Force, Viet Nam, May the souls of these vets rest in honored peace beneath the sod of a land they helped to keep free.

We are their family.

Vets wo Families Mar 30, 2011

The Parents of SPC Martin Gonzalez Jr. invited the PGR to the Military honors for their son. SPC Gonzalez was home on leave following a deployment in Korea when he was involved in a Motorcycle accident. He succumbed from his injuries.

The PGR will stage at Riverside National Cemetery (RNC) 22495 Van Buren Blvd, Riverside, CA 92518

Martin Gonzalez Jr

On Friday, 25 March 2011, Cathedral City Police Officer Jermaine Gibson, age 29, will be brought to Riverside National Cemetery for burial. Officer Gibson lost his life while on duty in pursuit of a wanted felon on 19 March 2011. He is survived by his wife and one month old son.

Officer Gibson was a U.S. Marine with three combat tours in Iraq. He was awarded three Purple Hearts for his actions.

The Cathedral City PD will be honoring Officer Gibson with a celebration of his life and his service to his Country and community on Friday, 25 March 2011 at 1000 hrs

Jermaine Gibson

The USO at Ontario Airport has invited the PGR to welcome home two U.S. Army Reserve units returning from Iraq and Afghanistan.

As the planes at the Ontario USO now come right up to the USO building, the PGR has also been asked to help in crowd control to keep the families inside the building as the troops arrive. There will be approximately 150 troops arriving and their families will be there to greet them.

The units returning are the 224th Sustainment Brigade from Iraq and the 330th Brigade from Afghanistan.

Marilyn went with me to the Welcome Home.  While I was taking pictures Marilyn started talking to an arriving soldier, US Army Spc. Carlos Rivera.  Spec Rivera was trying to find a shuttle to Hacienda Heights.  Marilyn found me and told me of his plight.  I walked up to him and shook his hand, said "Welcome Home, you have found your ride".  It turned out that his family didn't expect him until midnight (it was about noon) and he wanted to surprise his 7 year old daughter at her school.  He had been in Afghanistan for 14 months.  I found another PGR member and he agreed to "ride outrigger" on his trike.  We arrived at school and one of the staff went out onto the playground and found the teacher who gathered up Reline and brought her to the office.  I'm glad that I wasn't standing between Reline and her father as she would have gone right through me.  Lots of hugs, tears and kisses were exchanged.  Later Spc. Rivera went out to the gate and was surrounded by kids with questions and wanting autographs.  What a great time.

Ontario Welcome Home

Seven (7) American Heroes, 23 Mar 2011, Riverside National Cemetery, Riverside, CA

During the past few days, the cremains of several vets have been left at Riverside National Cemetery.

The vets are: Lynn Sandell, U.S. Army, Walter Fluhr, U.S. Air Force, Michael Archer, U.S. Army, Glen Welsh, U.S. Air Force, Harry Granen, U.S. Army, Helen Badgley, U.S. Army, James Niemann, U.S. Navy

The PGR will hold a service for these vets with full Military Honors.

Veterans Without Families Mar 23, 2011

The family of Delmar G. Chase has requested that the Patriot Guard Riders attend and participate in the Final Honors of their loved one at Colton California. Mr. Chase proudly served proudly served his country 4 years, from 1950 to 1954, in the US Air Force during the Korean War. He was trained as a dental technician at the University of New York, and served in Korea in a support capacity, this training led to his career in the dental field for the rest of his life upon his return to the states. Mr. Chase was affectionately called "Del" by his friends and associates. Del and his loving wife of 56 years, Margaret, owned a Dental Lab in Grand Terrace for years, but also made time to be very active in their 3 children's lives and also found time to pursue their love of travel. One of their favorite things was cruising, the highlight of which was a cruise through the Panama Canal, they also loved their trips to Maui. Del was a life long Patriot, and a member of the American Legion, Post 106 in Redlands, CA. Del instilled this love of country in his children and grand children, his daughter Sandy is a General in the US Air Force, his son Delmar Jr. served 4 years in the US Air Force, and 2 of his grand children are also veterans.

Del is survived by his wife Margaret, daughter Sandy, sons Randy and Delmar Jr., 4 grand children, and 1 great grandchild.

Delmar G. Chase

SSGT Sanchez was a Gunner on a B26 Marauder that was shot down near Man Der Scheid Germany on 23 Dec 1944.

On 17 March 2011 he was returned to his family.

On 19 March he received his Military Honors and was buried with his Mother at Rose Hills Memorial Park and Mortuary 3888 Workman Mill Rd Whittier, CA.

Joe Sanchez

The family of James Mays has requested that the Patriot Guard Riders attend and participate in the Final Honors of their loved one. James served in the US Army for 2 years and served in Korea from 1952 to 1954. He was always very proud of having served his country. After getting out of the Army he went back to college and earned his degree, became a teacher and worked in education for 40 years. He enjoyed golfing and music and spending time with his family. James is survived by his loving wife Maria, 4 sons Arthur, Ernie, James Jr. and Louie and 2 grandchildren.

James Mays

On Wednesday 16 Mar 2011, four (4) American Heroes will be brought to Riverside National Cemetery for burial, by the Los Angeles County Coroner.

The Vets are:  Christopher Gambrall, age 57, U.S. Army, Viet Nam, Arthur Young IV, age 49, U.S. Army, Cold War, Walter Barber, age 64, U.S. Army, Viet Nam, Arthur Rees Jr., age 61, U.S. Marines, Viet Nam,
The PGR will hold a service at Riverside National Cemetery for these vets will full military honors.

May the souls of these vets rest in peace beneath the sod of a Nation they helped to keep free.  We are their family.

Vets wo Families 16Mar11

Sgt Weaver will arrived home to his family.  We staged at the Katella Deli-Restaurant 4470 Katella Ave Los Alamitos, CA 90720.  Following his arrival the PGR escorted him 4 miles to Forrest Lawn Cypress 4471 Lincoln Avenue Cypress, CA 90630.

by Spc. Breanne Pye 4th ID

KANDAHAR, Afghanistan – 'Raider' Brigade mourns the loss of one of our own, who was killed March 3, in Kandahar City, when his squad struck an improvised explosive device while conducting a combat foot patrol.

Sgt. Jason Michael Weaver., a 22-year-old native of Anahiem, Calif., was assigned to 170th Military Police Company, 504th Military Police Battalion, 42nd Military Police Brigade, currently attached to 1st Brigade Combat Team, 4th Infantry Division.

“Jason epitomized the qualities that all soldiers seek to possess and Army leaders desire in their subordinates,” said Capt. Ethan A. Olberding, commander, Company D, 1st Battalion, 22nd Infantry Regiment, 1st Brigade Combat Team, 4th Infantry Division. “He was intelligent, a solid communicator and physically fit.”

 

Weaver enlisted in the Army as a military police officer on Jan. 29, 2008. He attended One Station Unit Training at Fort Leonard Wood, Miss., and upon completion of his training, reported to Joint Base Lewis – McChord, Wash., where he was assigned to 170th Military Police Company, 504th Military Police Battalion, 42nd Military Police Brigade.

Weaver deployed to Afghanistan with the 170th MP Company, 504th MP BN ‘Dragon fighters’ in June, 2010.

“Jason was more than a friend; he was family, a brother and a hero,” said Spc. Brian Gabel, military police officer, assigned to assigned to 170th Military Police Company, 504th Military Police Battalion, 42nd Military Police Brigade, currently attached to 1st Brigade Combat Team, 4th Infantry Division.

“Jason represented the first line of defense for his patrol by volunteering to be the point man during his patrols,” said Olberding. “He set the tone on mission through his understanding of the importance of building and maintaining positive relationships with local villagers.”

“Jason took the responsibility of being the ‘point man’ for our foot-patrols,” said Gabel. “He knew it was a dangerous job, but that’s the kind of guy he was; the kind who wanted to lead the way for his team and be there to protect them if they were in danger.”

“Jason’s dedication to duty far surpassed those identified in Army standards,” said Olberding. “He simply set an example for others to follow, through selfless service and devotion to mission accomplishment. We will remember Sgt. Weaver for these qualities as we strive to match those exemplified by him.”

Weaver is survived by his mother, Patricia Ann Weaver, and his father, Kevin Lee Weaver.

A memorial in Sgt. Jason Michael Weaver’s honor was held in Afghanistan, March 6, 2011.

 

Jason M. Weaver

Spc Hizon arrived home to his family at Burbank CA Airport.  The PGR escorted him and his family 12 miles to Forest Lawn Glendale, 1712 S. Glendale Avenue, Glendale, CA 91205.

Soldiers remember fallen Los Angeles comrade
By U.S. Army Sgt. 1st Class Matt Meadows, Task Force Patriot

LOGAR PROVINCE, Afghanistan – U.S. Army Spc. Rudolph R. Hizon was one of three Task Force Patriot soldiers from 4th Brigade Combat Team, 10th Mountain Division, who died as the result of an enemy attack in Logar province Feb. 28.

Hizon, a 22-year-old Los Angeles native assigned to Company B, 2nd Battalion, 30th Infantry Regiment’s Task Force Storm out of Fort Polk, La., died during a complex improvised explosive device, small-arms and rocket-propelled grenade attack in the Charkh area of the province.

U.S. Army Spc. Kevin Jones of Aurora, Ill., assigned to Company B’s TF Storm, said he will always remember Hizon’s smile.
“I will always have you in my thoughts for the rest of my days,” said Jones of Hizon. “I love you man!”

 

Hizon was a good friend to everyone he knew, said U.S. Army Spc. Joshua Gonzales of Olath, Kan.

“I will always think of him as the happy and cheerful person he was… and I’m going to miss him dearly,” said Gonzales. “I love you, fool.”

U.S. Army Pfc. Clayton Contrall of Piedmont, Ala., also with Company B, said Hizon always had a “huge smile” on his face – the kind of smile that made everyone around him smile, too.

“You’re a warrior and will always be in my heart,” said Contrall. “Love you fool!”

“Fool” is a term of endearment used among some of the soldiers.

Hizon’s awards and decorations include the Bronze Star Medal, Purple Heart, Army Good Conduct Medal, National Defense Service Medal, Afghan Campaign Medal with star device, Global War on Terror Service Medal, Army Service Ribbon, Overseas Service Ribbon, NATO Medal and Combat Infantryman Badge.

Spc Rudolph R. Hizon

The family of Roger L. Morgan has requested that the Patriot Guard Riders attend and participate in the final honors of their loved one at Riverside, CA. Roger served in the Army, 101st Airborne from 1 Oct 1948 until 11 Nov 1950.

Roger L. Morgan

On Wednesday, 2 Mar 2011, the Los Angeles County Coroner will transport four (4) American Heroes to Riverside National Cemetery for
burial from Los Angeles County.

In addition, Four (4) Veterans Without Families will be brought to Riverside National Cemetery on Wednesday 2 March 2011 for burial.
Dignity's Rose Hills Mortuary will be handling the transportation of these vets to RNC.

The Vets are: Steven Ralph Mize, age 62, U.S. Army, Viet Nam, James Leland Melvin, age 56, U.S. Navy, Viet Nam, Robert James Miller, age 59, U.S. Air Force, Viet Nam, Alan Shearer, age 65, U.S. Army, Viet Nam, Merwin Robinson, age 95, U.S. Army, WW II, Carleton Phillippo, age 81, U.S. Air Force, Korea, Reuban Carlson, age 80, U.S. Navy, Korea, James Hood, age 68, U.S. Army, Viet Nam

The cremains of additional vets left at RNC will also be honored at this time.

The PGR will stand by for these vets and hold a service with full Military Honors at Riverside National Cemetery.

Vets wo Families 2 Mar 2011

The PGR has been asked to stand for Jeff at his memorial services at Fullerton High School. Jeff was a Navy radioman and served with the Marines in Viet Nam from 1970 to 1971.

Jeff was a respected teacher at Fullerton High for 17 years. He is survived by his Wife Harriett. Jeff was hit by a car while riding his Harley and succumbed to his injuries on 11 Feb. 2011.

The family is having his memorial service at the Fullerton H. S. Plummer Auditorium and they are expecting several hundred Family and Friends. They have asked for a Patriot Guard Flag line as the Family and his cremated Remains enter the Auditorium. We may be asked to fold his Flag. TAPS has been arranged.

Jeff Rupp

Ten (10) American Heroes, Riverside National Cemetery, 23 Feb 2011

On Wednesday, 23 Feb 2011, the Los Angeles County Coroner transported four (4) American Heroes to Riverside National Cemetery for burial from Los Angeles County.

Dignity's Rose Hills Mortuary transported six (6) Vets Without Families to Riverside National Cemetery for burial from Los Angeles County.

The Vets are: Marshall B. Rose, age 65, U.S. Marines, Viet Nam, Henry Goodman, age 69, U.S. Air Force, Viet Nam, Dorothy Kohler, age 90, U.S. Navy, WW II, Frank R. Wood, age 76, U.S. Navy, Korea, Paul Dragoo, age 80, U.S. Army, Korea, Ricardo Loveman, age 83, U.S. Navy, WW II, Ernest T. Atkinson, age 80, U.S. Army, Korea, William H. Fuller, age 73, U.S. Army, Cold War, Dwane E. George, age 64, U.S. Air Forece, Viet Nam, Howard L. Priest, age 59, info not available at this time

The cremains of additional vets left at RNC will also be honored at this time.

The PGR will stand by for these vets and hold a service with full Military Honors at Riverside National Cemetery.

Vets wo Families 23 Feb 2011

 

John a WWII veteran passed away suddenly. His Family invited thePGR to his services and Military honors.  The PGR will staged at the Living Truth Christian Fellowship Church, 1114 W. Ontario Ave. Corona/CA.

The PGR then Escorted him 27 Miles to Riverside National Cemetery,  22495 Van Buren Blvd Riverside, CA 92518 for his Military Honors.

John E Hankla

1st Radio Battalion’s deployment in support of Operation ENDURING FREEDOM is finally coming to a close after a long year!

Throughout the OEF-10 deployment, during which 53 Marines did the full year, all of the personnel did a spectacular job collecting raw information, turning that into finished intelligence, and providing that to support the Commanding General of Regional Command Southwest and the multitude of units they supported throughout the battle space.

A brief history on this unit. In Vietnam it was designated the 1st Composite Radio Company, USMC. This unit has the first official KIA in the Vietnam War. If you look at the Wall, there is a casualty listed as KIA in 1959. This casualty was the result of a team that consisted of Marines and Soldiers from an MI detachment using an old radio located, the box with a loop on top that was manually turned to locate the strongest signal.

The command of the 1st Radio Bn would like the PGR to welcome home these brave Marines. This has a special meaning for the PGR as this unit is the unit that one of our PGR Blue Star moms (Joyce Orrell) son is assigned to. Please be there to welcome these freedom fighters home with your flags, smiles, handshakes and hugs. And, you might also want to bring a little apatite as there will be hamburgers and hot dogs.

1st Rad Bat Welcome Home

Eight (8) American Heroes, Riverside National Cemetery, 16 Feb 2011

On Wednesday, 16 Feb 2011, three (3) vets and the wife of a vet without families were brought to Riverside National Cemetery by the Los Angeles County Coroner for burial.

The Vets were: Robert Zayas, age 52, U.S. Army, Cold War, Steven J. Peseski, age 67, U.S. Navy, Viet Nam, Michael J. Mathews, age 60, info pending, Antonia R. Wolfe, age 70, wife of vet

In addition, four (4) vets without families were brought to Riverside National Cemetery from Los Angeles County by Dignity's Rose Hills Mortuary for burial.

The Vets were: Jimmie Lee Williams, age 60, U.S. Marines, Viet Nam, Carl Pickering, age 68, U.S. Navy, Viet Nam, William Lund, age 79, Korea, Richard G. Strong, age 87, U.S. Army, WW II

The PGR stood by for these vets and held a service with full Military Honors at Riverside National Cemetery.

The PGR also honored all of the cremated remains that were left at RNC without a service within the past week.

Vets wo Families 16 Feb 2011

Terry Roberts the daughter of Anthony (Tony) Olaerts has asked thePatriot Guard Riders to provide an escort and to honor this hero for his service to his country.

When on December 7, 1941 the WWII began Tony and his brothers served in various branches of the military. Shortly after enlisting in the Army Tony was raised in rank to Sergeant in the Army Corp of Engineers. One of his assignments while in Europe included building and destroying bridges in the war zones. He was also assigned to assist General Patton’s army to build and or destroy bridges as needed for the war effort. Tony survived the Battle of Bulge and was among the first American soldiers to enter Germany. He also witnessed the atrocities of the death camps. After V.E. Day Tony was shipped to the Pacific Theatre where he was assigned to Manila (Luzon) in the Philippine Islands and was involved in operations on the island until the Japanese surrendered.

One night while on patrol, Tony noticed a Japanese soldier lying on the ground. After closer inspection it was obvious the man was dead. While cautiously searching the body for booby traps Tony found the flag of Japan folded neatly in the dead mans clothing. Tony removed the flag before the man was buried. The flag had several Japanese words written on it. Many years after the war Tony still had the flag, was married and living in Placentia, California. He had a Japanese gardener and out of curiosity asked the man if he could read Japanese. The gardener said he could so Tony showed him the flag. He was able to translate what was written on the flag. It stated the wishes of the dead man’s family in Japan as well as other information. These Japanese flags are actually unique to each Japanese family. The Gardner took a photograph of the flag and gave it to the Japanese Embassy in Los Angeles. The Embassy forwarded the photograph to Japan where it was published in various Japanese newspapers. A family came forward claiming it as their family flag.

Tony decided to return the flag to the family in Japan. So, in 1979 he flew to Japan, found the surviving family members and returned the flag to the grateful family who now knew where their loved one had died and was buried in the service of his country.  Tony shared with the family how he came into possession of this flag. The family finally has closure knowing what had happened to their family member who had gone off to war. It was the custom of Japanese military to carry their countries flag on their person when in the military service.

Following his military service Tony delivered movies to theaters on his motorcycle, did a little flat-track racing, worked for a blueprint company and started his own business and was an avid golfer. Tony was a loving husband, Father, Grandfather and Great-Grand Father, Brother, Uncle, Cousin and Friend to everyone.  Now let us honor this veteran.

Anthony Olaerts

The family of Richard M. Daniher requested that the Patriot Guard Riders attend and participate in the final honors of their loved one at Riverside, CA. Richard proudly served in the US Navy 6 Jun 1965 to 31 Jul 1968, and received 2 Bronze Stars, a Vietnam Campaign Medal, and a Navy Unit Commendation Ribbon. His last duty was aboard the USS Constellation, having served 2 yrs 9 months sea duty.

Richard M. Daniher

ROBERT LEE SMITH, age 68 entered eternal rest on 1/30/2011 following illness. The family of Mr. Smith has requested the presence of PGR at East Hills Community Church 20660 Orange Terrace Pkwy. Riverside, CA 92508 for flag line and escort to RNC. Born in Los Angeles, Robert proudly served in the U.S. Navy during Vietnam. He would later spend over 30 years as a plumbing contractor. He was a devoted husband to Vicky, a loving father, grandfather and dear friend.
 

Robert Lee Smith

On Wednesday, 9 Feb 2011, four (4) vets without families were brought to Riverside National Cemetery for burial. Dignity's Rose Hills Mortuary brought four (4) for burial.

The Vets are: Robert W. Swartzler, age 92, U.S. Army, WW II, Robert L. Morgan, age 70, U.S. Army, Cold War, Henry Gordon, age 74, U.S. Marines, Korea , Maurice Simpson, age 79, U.S. Army, Korea

The PGR stood by for these vets and held a service with full Military Honors at Riverside National Cemetery.

The PGR will also honor all of the cremated remains that have been left at RNC without a service within the past week.

We also took a moment to remember Charles Kasal, hospital corpsman who served aboard the USS Marshall.  His wife, Lil "mom"  Kasal has been a PGR member for many years.

Vets wo Families 2-09-11

JOHN EDWARD WHITE, Born 8/18/45 in Danville, IL who was primarily known as "Jack". After graduating from high school he enlisted in the Marine Corps. Because of his expertise as a typist he was assigned to the Philippines as a court reporter. Two years later he chose to go to Vietnam to follow in two of his uncles footsteps and became a combat Marine. When he was injured for the second time, he was sent home with honors for serving his country proudly.

He joined the Los Angeles Police Dept. and moved to Riverside where he opened "White Investigations". Jack enjoyed being a private investigator for 15 years. In 2001-2002 he became Exalted Ruler of the Riverside Elks 643. He retired from his investigations later that year. He was a member of the American Legion Post 79. He resigned his position as 2nd Vice Commander when he was diagnosed with lung cancer on Nov. 1, 2010. He was so brave in his fight, but lost the battle Feb. 1, 2011.

John E. White

During WWII Don served as a Corsair Aircraft Mechanic throughout the Pacific Theater to include Okinawa and Yokosuka, Japan.

The PGR formed a flag line as Don’s Family and Friends arrived and departed the Church. Following the services the PGR  escorted them 31 miles to Riverside National Cemetery (RNC) 22495 Van Buren Blvd Riverside, CA 92518-2740.

Donald H Grant

Eight (8) American Heroes, Riverside, CA 12 Jan 2011

On Wednesday, 12 Jan 2011, the Los Angeles County Coroner brought four (4) American Heroes to Riverside National Cemetery for burial.

Dignity's Rose Hills Mortuary also brought four (4) Vets Without Family to Riverside National Cemetery for burial

The vets were: Robert H. Powell, age 79, U. S. Army, period of service not confirmed, Alvin T. Williams, age 64, U.S. Army, Viet Nam, Robert Goldberg, age 70, U.S. Army, Viet Nam, Jack Ramirez, age 63, U.S. Army, Viet Nam, Charles Strum, age 75, U.S. Army, Viet Nam, Robert Palmer, age 78, U.S. Army, Korea, David Lenox, age 79, U.S. Army, Korea, Daniel Chen, age 83, U.S. Army/Air Force, U.S. Air Force, WW II, Korea, Viet Nam

Veterans wo Families 1-12-11

The family of Richard Ramirez Marquez requested that the Patriot Guard Riders attend and participate in the final honors of their loved one at Riverside, CA.  Richard proudly served in the US Army 1956 to 1958, receiving an award as a Expert rifleman.  Richard was a lifelong patriot and a member of the American Legion Post 328 Norco, CA . Richard was also a sports enthusiast and coach for many years in basketball, football, and baseball.  Richard is survived by his wife Jan, his daughter Colleen Acosta, 3 sons, Richard Marquez, Kevin Burton, Jeff Burton and 9 grandchildren.

Richard Ramirez Marquez

The family of Wilfon E. Fulfer requested the Patriot Guard Riders to honor their loved one at his services. Mr. Fulfer served in the U.S. Army Air Corps during WWII and further when it converted to the U.S. Air Force serving a total of 10 yrs. Upon leaving the military Mr. Fulfer continued his government career by serving the next 28 yrs in the U.S. Postal Service. He was preceded in life by his first wife Patricia (married 40 yrs) who died in the 1980's and by his second wife Dolly (married 17 yrs) who died approx. 4 yrs ago. He is survived by six children Mike, William, Kathleen, Daniel, Rosemary Castello, and Michele Lallement. Mr. Fulfer is also survived by 8 grand children and 2 great grand children.

Wilfon E. Fulfer

The family of SSG Brian Abuel has asked for the Patriot Guard Riders (PGR) to participate in honoring this veteran and hero at his final rest. SSG Abuel served in both Operation Desert Storm and Operation Iraqi Freedom. His last post being with the Mighty 137th, 101ST RAKKASANS and the 926th CO.

SSG Abuel put in many hours and played a huge role in the success of the Welcome Home Defenders of Freedom event a couple of years back at the Rose Bowl. SSG Abuel also attended several community/ networking events such as the San Gabriel Valley VEC and the wonderful Welcome Home Vietnam Veterans yearly event.

Brian Abuel

On Wednesday, 5 Jan 2011, the Los Angeles County Coroner brought three (3)  Vets Without Families and one (1) Hero to Riverside National Cemetery for  burial. (Originally scheduled for 29 Dec 2010)

The vets are: James L. Cunningham, age 73, no info available at this time, Theodore Mason, age 62, U.S. Navy, Viet Nam, Russell A. Goodwin, age 50, no info available at this time, Wardell T. Thomas, age 67, U.S. Navy, Viet Nam

The PGR was there for these vets and held a service with full military honors at Riverside National Cemetery

Vets wo Families 1-5-2011