The family of Elwood Gilmer Smith (known by all that knew him as "Smitty), 93 years old, has invited the Patriot Guard Riders (PGR) to accompany him to his final resting place and to attend Military Honors of their loved one as he makes his final journey. It will be our honor to do so.
“Smitty” joined the Army Air Corps when he came of age during WWII, he served from 06 January 1944 to 23 March 1946 and attained the rank of Sergeant. He served in the South Pacific aboard ship and on different islands.
After his military service, Smitty worked for the Civil Service over 50 years, retiring at China Lake, CA in 1988. His hobbies included fixing cameras, VCR's, whatever was broken and he could tinker with. He also loved spending time with family especially his grandkids.
He was married to his wife Martha for over 65 years. Martha passed away
less than 18 hours after Smitty. Friday's service will be a dual service for both Smitty and Martha.
Smitty is survived by his sister Eleanor, and a sister-in-law, Mollie, children Paula, Christopher, James, and Jessica. He had 11 grandchildren and 1 great grandson.
Note: This mission posting is to facilitate your volunteer participation in honoring this military Veteran. For those interested, and all are welcome, we will be accompanying the hero and his family to his final resting place. Please see the time table if you would like to participate.
Time table for Friday 22 March 2019:1300 - Stage at Holland & Lyon’s Mortuary 216 S Norma St Ridgecrest, CA. 93555
https://goo.gl/maps/1Ygxs3udTgr1315 - Mission brief
1345 - Flag line as we transfer Hero to coach
1400 - Depart to Desert Memorial Park, 801 S San Bernardino County Line Rd, Ridgecrest, CA. 93555
https://goo.gl/maps/PSBfE7HmGQ921415 - Flag line for Full Military honors
R/C Greg "Drifty" Vincent
So Cal PGR Ride Captainsliick333@msn.com
760-371-5467
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 Heroes. No talking, smoking, or cell phone use during the flag line or service. When you arrive at Holland & Lyons the service for our Hero is going on keep radios off and engine noise to a minimum.
