The family of Charles “Stephen” Hymas, 71, has invited the Patriot Guard Riders to honor him for his military service. It is our honor to do so.
Stephen was born 05 Sept 1948 and passed away 19 Oct 2019 due to cancer, heart disease and ALS that were due to his exposure to Agent Orange.
Stephen proudly served his country as part of the US Army from 9 Feb 1968 until his honorable discharge 18 Mar 1970 at the rank of E4. Charles served those two years in Vietnam, where he was trained in driving large transportation trucks to deliver supplies and to also transport Vietnamese civilians from place to place. He was awarded the National Defense Service Medal, Vietnam Service Medal, Vietnam Campaign Medal and Good Conduct Medal.
Following his service in the Army, Stephen worked for a couple of large freight delivery companies, and worked his way up to management before he retired. He became step-father to his wife's son, Lee, when Lee was 8 years old. His wife said he was an absolutely wonderful father to his stepson. He coached his stepson's soccer and baseball teams.
Stephen is survived by his wife of 40 years, Sharron, stepson Lee Hawkins (Olivia), brothers Val and Scott, sisters Dianne and Kathy, and 2 grandsons Matthew and Bryce who is currently serving in the US Marines.
There will be dog tags for this mission as the hero's death is combat related.Note: This mission posting is to facilitate your voluntary participation in honoring this Military Veteran. For those interested, and all are welcome, please see the time table if you would like to participate.
If you cannot accompany this Hero please consider meeting us at the Cemetery with a flag line as the hero arrives.
Time Table for Wednesday, October 30, 2019:1000 - Stage at Colton Funeral Home, 1275 N La Cadena Dr., Colton, CA 92324
https://goo.gl/maps/P5efzy1yrVevkeJv81015 - Mission Briefing
1045 – Flag line as our Hero is brought from the Church to the awaiting coach
1100 – KSU to Riverside National Cemetery, 22495 Van Buren Blvd, Riverside, CA; (Staging Area #4 for family, north of Staging Area #8 for PGR))
https://goo.gl/maps/gk21Q1Z56aa5xfnC7 1145 – Flag line as our Hero is moved from the coach to the shelter
R/C Brenda Bixler
Aka “Pebbles”(951)522-6847
bixler.brenda@yahoo.com
You do not have to be a Veteran or a motorcycle rider to attend this mission. Everyone is welcome. We encourage those who do not ride to attend in your car. If this will be your first mission go to the initial staging area and you will be briefed there by the R/C (Ride Captain). Dress for motorcycle riding or dress casually if you are driving a cage (car). Please feel free to attend any portion of this mission you can. Please ride/drive safely.
Please remember that our mission is to stand tall and silent, and with honor and respect for our Heroes. No talking, smoking, or cell phone use during the flag line or service. Please keep radios off and engine noise to a minimum. Observe the 15 MPH speed limit. Remember, cemeteries are hallowed ground. Show respect to all who are there, not just the ones we are honoring.
