The family of Charles “Red” Cauthen, age 79, has invited the Patriot Guard Riders to attend their hero’s military honors. It is our privilege to fulfill their request.
Red, as he was affectionately known to family and friends, proudly served in the United States Navy for 23½ years, retiring at the rank of ABF Senior Chief Petty Officer. During his Naval career, he had the rare opportunity to support two Apollo missions, including Apollo 11, bringing Neil Armstrong safely home. In addition, he served multiple tours of duty in Vietnam and participated in numerous overseas deployments—experiences would lead to his legendary storytelling.
After retiring from military service, Red continued his dedication to the public as a safety consultant/engineer for Sunkist, Cal/OSHA, and the Metropolitan Water District. Service didn’t stop there. Red received a Presidential Recognition for National and Local Community Service after volunteering over 10,000 hours with the National Forest Service—a testament to his love of the outdoors and his commitment to giving back.
Never one to sit still for long—unless it was outdoors watching the world go by—Red had a wide range of passions. He enjoyed shooting, hunting, camping, ATV riding, truck driving across the country, and, of course, pyrotechnics. As a professional pyrotechnician, Red helped light up the skies at multiple Super Bowls, two Olympic Games, and films including Meet Joe Black, along with many other venues. Few people can say their work made millions stop and look up in awe—and Red was proud to be one of them.
Above all, Red was a family man. He shared 56 loving years of marriage with his wife Juanita (Nita) Cauthen, his partner in life and adventure. He was a devoted father to Kristi Gagnier (Michael) and Craig Cauthen (Tracy), and a proud grandfather to Reagan, Cameron, Emily, Allison, and Ellie, each of whom brought him immense joy. He is also survived by his brother, Richard.
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 mission at Riverside National Cemetery. For those who would like to participate, please see the timetable and we will meet you there.
TIMETABLE FOR THURSDAY, 08 JANUARY 20261030: Stage at Riverside National Cemetery, 22495 Van Buren Blvd, Riverside, CA. (Lemay Blvd near the restrooms on the right).
https://maps.app.goo.gl/UAoAQTYkLzPAM6nn71100: Mission briefing.
1115: Await arrival of hero and move to assigned cortège.
1130: KSU to assigned shelter for flag line and military honors.
Lillian Riddell
Assistant State Captain
SoCal Patriot Guard Riders
lilygirl54@roadrunner.com
(909) 855-2623You 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.
