The family of Leo Jose Betancourt have asked the Patriot Guard to be with them as they say their final Good-bye to their hero and loved one.
Leo was a member of the United States Army from 1995 to 2010 as both a Cannon Crew Member and Preventive Medicine Specialist. Duties included environmental assessments for a brigade area of operations to minimize disease and non-battle injury. Primary responsibilities were air, and soil analysis to detect health hazards to service members. Data was presented in detailed reports highlighting hazards, risks, trends, and areas of concern to the commanding officer along with recommendations for abatement. He also presented monthly training courses to brigade leadership and service members in the areas of preventive medicine measures.
His awards and decorations included the Meritorious Service Medal, Army Commendation Medal, Army Achievement Medal, Good Conduct Medal, Global War on Terrorism Kosovo Medal, Army Parachutist Badge among others.
After he left active duty, Leo attained a Master's in Education and was excited as a native Angelino to serve as an educator in his community. He believed, schools are more than just places to receive knowledge; schools are the platforms to develop leaders and citizens. Our schools should enable our students to move our society toward implementing egalitarian values.
His first teaching position was as the program coordinator for the Scholar Success Center. Duties included planning and direct instruction for a period of general English and general math for students at least 2 grade levels behind. In addition, he was the IEP case manager for each of the students in the program, a total of 12, grades 9,10, and 11. Resource support was provided in the general education classroom setting in multiple subjects. In December of 2012 he transitioned to teaching at Taft High School where he was well liked and respected by colleagues and students alike.
NOTE: This mission posting is to facilitate your voluntary participation in honoring this Military Veteran. For those interested, all PGR members are welcome. This Mission will be an Flag Line at Los Angeles National Cemetery. Please see the timetable if you would like to participate.
NOTE: Temperatures are expected to be over 100*. Please be sure to hydrate and eat as it will make a difference in your ability to withstand the heat.Time Line for Wednesday, 08 July 2026:
1000 - Stage at Los Angeles National Cemetery 950 S Sepulveda Blvd, Los Angeles, CA 90049
https://maps.app.goo.gl/QVHxrjW6DsByJqAp91030 - Mission Briefing
1045 - Move to the Cemetery Annex shelter
1100 - Flag Line, Final Services, and Military Honors
Ride Captain
John "Major" GretzingerMAJ, AVN, USA (Ret).
61st Avn Co (AHC) - Lucky 15
RVN, 1970. 1971
Administrator SoCal PRG Mission Operations
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 is your first mission, go to the initial staging area, and you will be briefed by the R/C (Ride Captain). Dress for motorcycle riding or wear casual attire while driving a cage (car). Please feel free to attend any portion of this mission you can. Please ride/drive safely.
Remember that our mission is to stand tall and silent 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. Show respect to all who are there, not just the ones we honor.
