*Please See Note From The Ride Captain Below*
The family of Richard Lopez has invited the Patriot Guard Riders to participate in their Hero’s final journey. We are honored to fulfill this request.
Our Hero enlisted into the Marine Corps 10/18/66 and was honorably discharged at the rank of Corporal, E-4 on 09/05/69. During his service, he was awarded the National Defense Ribbon, Vietnam Service Medal, Vietnam Campaign Medal, Purple Heart and Presidential Unit Citation. He served one tour in Vietnam as an Infantry Scout Leader.
As a civilian, Richard spent his 45-year career in the auto industry. His favorite hobby/interest was coaching soccer and spending time with his grandchildren.
Our Hero is survived by his bride, Maria; children, Richard, Danny, Farron and Anthony. He will also be missed by five grandchildren and three siblings.
NOTE FROM THE RIDE CAPTAIN: Richard enjoyed a friendship spanning decades with my friend, neighbor and fellow PGR member, Pete Ashlock. It is important to all involved that we make our Hero’s mission as memorable as possible. To that end, I would truly appreciate participation from Upland to RNC by a missing man team and others as angels behind the coach.NOTE: This mission posting is to facilitate your voluntary participation in honoring this American Hero. For those interested, and all PGR members are welcome, we will be accompanying the Hero and his family from the memorial service to the cemetery, approx 34 miles. Please see the time table if you would like to participate. For those who would rather go directly to the cemetery, we will meet you there.
Time Table for Tuesday, 22 July 2025:1030 - Stage at Chaffey Cultural Center, 525 W. 18th St., Upland, CA 91784
https://maps.app.goo.gl/vPBkAXYpjbNwVGJJ81100 - Mission briefing
1145 - KSU to Riverside National Cemetery, 22495 Van Buren Blvd., Riverside, CA 92518
https://maps.app.goo.gl/67KZoXJ48FLVUKKz51245 - Expected arrival of coach and movement to staging lane
1315 - KSU to shelter for military honors and service
R/C Billy (Billyjean) Morgan
So. Cal. High Desert Ride CaptainUS Army, Vietnam 69-70
949-939-7282
“One Straw at a time”
You do not have to 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 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.
