The family of Carlos Portillo, Jr., 93, has invited the Patriot Guard Riders to participate in their hero’s final journey. We are honored to fulfill this request.
Carlos proudly enlisted in the United States Army at the age of 18, and served from from October 1950 to October 1953, during the Korean Conflict. He served with the 82nd and 187th Airborne Infantry Regiment, 11th Airborne Division, known as the Rakkasans, a highly decorated airborne unit. The Rakkasans comes from a Japanese term which means “man falling under umbrella” inspired by the men’s parachute jumps and parachuting behind enemy lines during the Korean War. Carlos was wounded in combat and received two Purple Hearts as well as the Army of Occupation Medal (Japan), and the Korean Service Medal w/2 Bronze Service stars. He was honorably discharged at the rank of Corporal (E-4).
Carlos remained active throughout his life in veteran organizations to include the Rakkasans 187th Airborne, Disabled American Veterans, the United States Parachute Association, and the Veterans of Foreign Wars. In these organizations Carlos found lasting camaraderie.
As a civilian, Carlos worked as a machine operator and a supervisor for Vons Grocery Company. Carlos carried his love of skydiving from the Army to civilian life. He participated in competitions and exhibitions across the United States. He also enjoyed motorcycle riding.
Our hero is preceded in death by his wife of 39 years, Esperanza (Hope) Portillo who passed in 2022, and daughter, Vivian, and son, William. He will be greatly missed by five children, Mia, Anita, Anthony, Theresa and Loretta, as well as 14 grandchildren, 26 great-grandchildren and many extended relatives and friends.
NOTE: This mission posting is to facilitate your voluntary participation in honoring this military veteran. For those interested, and all PGR members are welcome, this is a flag line only (FLO) mission at Forest Lawn - Covina. For those who would like to participate, please see the timetable and we will meet you there.
TIMETABLE FOR (R.E.D.) FRIDAY, 10 OCTOBER 20251215: Stage at Forest Lawn - Covina Hills, 21300 Via Verde, Covina, CA. (Please arrive quietly as service will be in session.)
https://maps.app.goo.gl/dqJBqPDAf35zMFYBA1230: Mission briefing.
1245: Flag line for dignified transfer from chapel to coach.
1300: KSU to gravesite for service and military honors.
Billy “BillyJean” Morgan
SoCal High Desert Ride Captain
US 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 Ride Captain (RC). 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.
