The family of MCPO Jose “Papa Joe” Cruz Borja (Ret), 81, has invited the Patriot Guard Riders to honor him for his military service. It is our honor to do so.
Jose proudly served his country as part of the US Navy from 01 Feb. 1957 until his honorable discharge 01 Feb. 1989 at the rank of Master Chief Petty Officer. Jose served in combat in Vietnam. During his service he earned the following decoration Medals: Navy Achievement Medal; Good Conduct Medal, Eighth award, Humanitarian Service Medal, Sen Service Deployment Ribbon (3 Bronze Stars), Republic of Vietnam Meritorious Unit Citation Gallantry Cross Medal, Republic of Vietnam Campaign Medal, Marksman Pistol citation. He was a signalman and worked in Security
Following his service in the Navy, Jose volunteered much of his time assisting the elderly and Veterans on multiple fronts. His hobbies included going to casinos, watching baseball, gardening and mastering the BBQ.
Jose is survived by his wife Joycelene, son, Michael and daughters Annette and Amanda, "Little Pea," five grandchildren and several great grandchildren.
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 accompanying the Hero and his family from the Mortuary Services to his final resting place. Please see the timetable if you would like to participate. For those who would rather go directly to the cemetery, we will meet you there.
Timetable for Wednesday 27 November 2019:0800 – Stage at Olive Tree Mortuary 8381 Katella Ave, Stanton, CA 90680
https://goo.gl/maps/V7LbviGyheqHTEZ76 0815 - Mission Briefing
0830 – Flag line as our Hero is brought from the Church to the awaiting coach
0845 – KSU to Riverside National Cemetery, 22495 Van Buren Blvd, Riverside, CA; (Staging Area 1 for Family, Staging Area 8 for PGR)
https://goo.gl/maps/BofC4xFh7fr7pB7D6 1100-ETA arrival to Riverside National Cemetery
1115 – Flag line as our Hero is moved from the coach to the shelter
Please note:
This is the day before Thanksgiving and the volume of traffic might be high.
The weather is predicted to be cool with a chance for showers
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 Hero’s. No talking, smoking or cell phone use during the Flag Line or Service. Please keep radios and cell phones off and engine noise to a minimum. Observe all speed limits. Remember, cemeteries are hallowed ground. Show respect to all who are there, not just the ones we are honoring.
Brenda Bixler
SoCal PGR – Ride Captain
(951)522-6847
bixler.brenda@yahoo.com
