The family of Joel Jaime Lara, 25, has invited the Patriot Guard Riders accompany their hero to his final resting place. It is our honor to fulfill their request.
Joel was born on 11/05/2000 and passed on 08/07/2025. He entered into the United States Army on 10/25/2021 and honorably discharged as PVT (E-1) on 01/18/2025.
After Joel left the Army, he went to work as a Chemical, Biological, Radiological and Nuclear (CBRN) Specialist.
Per Joel’s sister:
"My brother Joel was a very kind person with a huge heart. He loved animals and loved to laugh & llisten to music. He cared for his family more than anything in the world. He was a huge Star Wars fan in addition to South Park and Rick and Morty. Before his passing, he was training to run his first marathon. He planned to start college in the fall and study biology. Additionally, he was very proud of getting his first car a few weeks before his passing. We'll miss him immensely."NOTE: This mission posting is to facilitate your voluntary participation in honoring this military veteran. For those interested, and all PGR members are welcome, we will be accompanying the hero and his family from the mortuary to the cemetery, approximately 18 miles. Please see the timetable if you would like to participate.
TIMETABLE FOR THURSDAY, 21 AUGUST 20250800: Stage at Wood Family Funeral Service, 321 West F St, Tehachapi, CA.
https://maps.app.goo.gl/xkr5c8GxgyJBuk9a60810: Mission briefing.
0815: KSU to Bakersfield National Cemetery, 30338 E Bear Mountain Blvd, Arvin, CA.
https://maps.app.goo.gl/L2SJMY3nwuevdY1y90845: ETA to Bakersfield National Cemetery.
0915: Flag line and military honors.
Jim “Pops” Davis
Tehachapi Area PGR Ride Captain
jdavisabajo514@yahoo.com
(661) 221-3120US Army 1964-1970; Vietnam 1966-1970
Army Ranger Mos 63B20& 63C20
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.
