The family of Manuel Escalante has invited the Patriot Guard Riders to participate in their hero’s final journey. We are honored to fulfill this request.
Our hero enlisted in the US Army, 23 May 1974 and was honorably discharged at the rank of Staff Sergeant (E-6) on 09 May 1992. He later served with the National Guard and was activated during the LA riots.
He settled in Hemet, CA and spent many years working in the Landscape industry and Pest Control working at Riverside National Cemetery for TruGreen. Manuel later worked for many years at Pechanga Resort Casino where he made lasting friendships.
Our hero is survived by his loving wife Debra and four sons: Bobby, Lonnie, Manuel and Daniel. He will be missed by twelve grandchildren and several great-grandchildren.
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.
Note: This mission posting is to facilitate your voluntary participation in honoring this American Hero. For those interested and all PGR members are welcome. We will be accompanying the Hero and his family from the Church to the cemetery, (approx. 25 miles). Please see the timetable if you would like to participate. If you prefer to meet the procession at the cemetery, please feel free to do so.
Timetable for Thursday, 4 June 20261115 - Stage at Our Lady of the Valley, 780 S. State St., Hemet CA. 92543 (
https://maps.app.goo.gl/qiB8oWSBZjEaDJkM8)
(please arrive quietly, Mass will be in session)
1145 - Mission Briefing
1200 - Flag line for dignified transfer of casket from chapel to coach.
1210 - KSU to Riverside National Cemetery, 22495 Van Buren Boulevard, Riverside, CA 92518 (
https://maps.app.goo.gl/LZDhSRwCQrt7bSmq6)
1245 - ETA at RNC and movement to staging lane.
1315 - Assigned Shelter for Final Military Honors and Services.
R/C Billy (Billyjean) Morgan
So. Cal High Desert Ride Captain
US Army, Vietnam 69-70
(949) 939-7282
“One Straw at a Time”
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.
