The family of Robert Michael Freeman, age 63, has invited the Patriot Guard Riders to honor him for his military service, we are privileged to do so.
In 1974 at 18 years old, Robert enlisted in the U.S. Navy in Minneapolis, MN. Robert completed his Aircraft Mechanic training at the Naval Training Center in Milwaukee, IL. He was then based at the Miramar Naval Airstation in San Diego, CA. From 1974 to the end of 1976, Robert worked as an Aircraft Mechanic on Fighter Planes as well as the USS Forrestal (CV-59) supercarrier.
In January 1977, Robert became disabled and he spent the remaining years of his life in many VA homes in Minnesota. Robert loved cars,and enjoyed fishing, sports, going to church and being with his family. He enjoyed everything from Shakespeare to listening to rock n’ roll.
Robert was an accomplished boxer. However, his biggest accomplishment was his role as brother and uncle. He would protect, defend, and love unconditionally.
He would put everyone else first, always. He was as humble as he was brave and strong.
In 2018, Robert was diagnosed with brain cancer. After undergoing brain surgery along with therapy, Robert was able to come back to California. Over this past year, his sister Nicole took care of her brother and they made every day count. Beach trips, Auntie Anne's Pretzels, breakfast at Norms, visits to the park and Sunday church. Before Robert passed away, his goal was to go camping with his nephew and teach him to fish. He was able to accomplish that goal. Robert passed away at the Long Beach VA Hospice Center.
Throughout his life, he spoke often of his service. He was very proud what he did, what it stood for, and this will be a part of his legacy forever.
There is very little family remaining, and the family is requesting if there are any Patriot Guard Riders available, they join them in remembering and honoring his service. The family has said that the PGR will be their extended family, as there are not many of them left.
Robert is survived by his brother Eric, two sisters (Cindy and Sandy), niece (Sarah), and nephew (Jared).
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 church services to his final resting place. 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 Friday, 30 AUG 20191145 - Stage Forest Lawn, Church of Our Fathers (west side of cemetery), 4471 Lincoln Avenue, Cypress, CA 90630
https://goo.gl/maps/A2swf53UvRMVXv8h71200 - Mission Briefing
1215 - Flag Line for dignified transfer of Hero from Church to coach
1230 - KSU to final resting place, Graveside service and Military Honors
R/C Mike "Joker" Courtright
So Cal PGR - Ride Captainmokynanapo@sbcglobal.net
714-321-3356
"Standing for those who stood for us"
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 is 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 in a cage (car). Please feel free to attend any portion of this mission that you can. Please ride/drive safely and PLEASE hydrate.
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.
