The family of James [Jim] Lee Helpingstine has requested PGR participation in our hero’s committal service as our Army veteran is laid to rest in the hallowed grounds of Miramar National Cemetery. We are honored to fulfill the request.
Jim, a descendent of an Army family was born in Fort Clayton Panama. He served on active duty in Germany as a member of the motor pool.
After his Army active duty tour, Jim moved to California and worked as a civilian painter at Naval shipyards, Mare Island and San Diego. He led a quiet life enjoying camping and visits to the beach.
Our hero James is predeceased by his wife Lisa Marie who will be buried at the same time. Surviving family members include his son Drew Helpingstine, sister-in-law Danielle Stephens and father-in law Rev. Rudy Cervantes.
IMPORTANT: The Army Honor Guard will not be present. The family will bring the flag. Patriot Guard Riders will fold and present the American Flag. A member of the family will sound TAPS.
NOTE: This mission posting is to facilitate your voluntary participation in honoring this military veteran. For those interested, and all PGR members are welcome. Please see the timetable, if you would like to participate.
This Mission is a Flag Line of Honor at Miramar National Cemetery.
Timeline for Wednesday, 25 June 2025:1400 – Stage at Miramar National Cemetery 5795 Nobel Dr, San Diego, CA 92122
https://maps.app.goo.gl/TjhGauErYGvF6rNL71415 – Mission briefing
1430 – Arrival at cortege lane
1450 – (est.) PGR relocate to committal shelter [TBD}
1500 – Flag Line for dignified transfer of hero into committal shelter, followed by Full Military Honors
Ted Tomaszewicz [Mr. T.]
Ride Captain – Patriot Guard Riders – SoCal
201.970.5546
You need not be a veteran or a motorcycle rider to attend this mission. All PGR members are welcome. We encourage those who do not ride to attend in your car. If this is your first mission, go to the staging area to be briefed by the Ride Captain (RC). Dress for motorcycle riding or dress casually, if driving a cage (car).
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. Cemeteries are hallowed ground. Our role is to show respect to all who are there, not just the veteran we are honoring.
