We have been invited by the friend and legal guardian of a Retired Military Hero, MSgt Joseph Patrick O'Rourke, age 90, to attend his military honors and stand as his family. Due to age and illness MSgt O'Rourke has lost touch with what little family he had, over the years, we will be honored to be there for him.
Joe served in the Air Force for 21 years, 3 months and 21 days, from 1952 to 1973, during Korea and Vietnam Eras. After retiring from the Air Force in 1973 he went to work for the Federal Government and retired again many years later. He was born and raised in Dublin, Ireland. He immigrated to the United States and received a certificate of naturalization during his time in the Air Force. He had a great love for his time in service and veterans. He also loved things that reminded him of Ireland and home.
A humorous story, Joe had an article written about him as being the "curse of the Air Force." Every time Joe was stationed at a new command the command would close it's doors while he was there. This happened on several occasions and became a joke that he was the curse of the Air Force. He served as a Manpower Technician on active duty.
Joe's first wife predeceased him, his current wife is still living but in very poor health and is not expected to be able to be at the service. Joe also has a son who lives in the UK and has not had any contact for decades.
The Patriot Guard has been requested to be Pall Bearers for our Hero Joseph.
NOTE: This mission posting is to facilitate your voluntary participation in honoring this Military Veteran. For those interested, and all are welcome, we will be standing a flag line at the cemetery. Please see the time table if you would like to participate.
Time Table for Monday 23 Dec 2019:0815 - Stage at Miramar National Cemetery, 5795 Nobel Dr., San Diego, CA 92122
https://goo.gl/maps/7oQ3TqthpCT679KL70840 - Mission Briefing
0900 - Flag line for arrival of Mortuary Coach and honorable transfer to Horse and Carriage.
0930 - Flag Line for Military Honors and Funeral Service
R/C Lorenzo Lizarraga
SoCal PGR Regional Ride Captain619-971-2236
llizarraga@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.
