The family of William (JJ) James has invited the Patriot Guard Riders to honor their hero for his service and sacrifice to his country. It will be our privilege to do so.
JJ served honorably during the Vietnam conflict from April, 1963 to August, 1973. While in country he was exposed to Agent Orange and suffered severely from that exposure. Honors received include the National Defense Service Medal, Vietnam Campaign Medal, Vietnam Service Medal with five Campaign Stars, Good Conduct Medal, Expert Badge (M 16) and two Overseas Bars. His rank at discharge was SP5/E5.
In civilian life he was a trucker and small business owner. He loved motorcycle riding and rode with the Patriot Guard Riders out of San Diego. He, along with many of his family, was an avid biker and they have participated in PGR missions in the San Diego, Riverside and Los Angeles areas. They also have participated in the Ride for the Wall for many years which they viewed as being a healing, memorable experience. JJ’s other activities included helping and supporting veterans, photography, enjoying Rock and Roll, Country and Irish style music.
Survivors include his mother, a brother, Children Donna, Christine, Elizabeth and Shannon, and six grandchildren. JJ will be interred along with his wife who preceded him in death in 1990.
NOTE: THIS IS A COMBAT RELATED MISSION, THERE WILL BE DOG TAGSNOTE: This mission posting is to facilitate your voluntary participation in honoring this Military Veteran. Please see the time table if you would like to participate. Dog Tags will be available for this Vietnam era hero.
Time Table for Monday 11 JAN 2016:1045 Stage at Riverside National Cemetery, 22495 Van Buren , Riverside, CA 92518. Family staging area #3, PGR stage north of area #8.
http://tinyurl.com/29ssvk31100 Mission Briefing
1130 KSU to assigned shelter for flag line and service with full military honors.
R/C: Vern GrimshawSoCal PGR Ride Captain
[email]vgrimshaw@aol.com[/email]
562-458-4421
“Lead with Respect; Serve with Compassion"
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 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. Please ride/drive safely.
