NOTE: This is a two-part mission, Part 1 to bring our Hero home and Part 2 for his final military honors. Details will be published when available.The Patriot Guard Riders will be bringing home one of their own, Devil Dog David “Palo” Palomares. Penny has requested that we stand a flag line as Palo is brought home, where he will remain until his future military honors. It is our privilege and honor to fulfill her request and stand in respect for our PGR brother, a proud Marine.
David proudly served in the United States Marine Corps for more than 3½ years, including 2½ years of foreign service, 1½ years of that in Vietnam. He was honorably discharged at the rank of Sergeant (E-5). During his service, Palo earned the National Defense Service Medal, Combat Action Ribbon, Good Conduct Medal, Vietnam Service Medal with one star, Vietnam Campaign Medal with device, and Rifle Marksman Badge. Palo was also a Purple Heart Recipient. After his discharge from the Corps, Dave worked as a Correctional Officer for 16 years at Fred C. Nelles Youth Correctional Facility in Whittier, CA.
Soon afterward, Palo became very involved in volunteering with the Southern California Patriot Guard Riders. He documented many PGR missions through his photography and was a dedicated presence at numerous events, including Veterans Without Family, honoring unclaimed veterans being laid to rest at Riverside National Cemetery; Toys for Tots; and the Welcome Home and Send-Offs for Marines at Camp Pendleton. His willingness to give his time, serve others, and honor our veterans and military members was truly a reflection of his generous spirit and love for his fellow Marines.
Palo leaves behind his loving wife, Penny; six children; nine grandchildren; sister, Cecelia (Rick); brother, George (Lisa); and many nieces and nephews. Sadly, his brother, Joe, passed away two weeks after Palo’s passing. Palo is preceded in death by his parents.
Palo also leaves behind a lasting legacy of friendships formed throughout the years with fellow Marines and his brothers and sisters in the Patriot Guard Riders. The bonds he created, the lives he touched, and the memories he shared will remain with those who had the privilege of knowing him. Palo will be deeply missed and lovingly remembered by his family, friends, fellow Marines, and his Patriot Guard Riders family.
NOTE: This mission posting is to facilitate your voluntary participation in honoring our fellow PGR brother and Devil Dog. For those interested, and all PGR members are welcome, this is a flag line only mission at a private residence as we await the arrival of the hero. For those who would like to participate, please see the timetable and we will meet you there.
TIMETABLE FOR WEDNESDAY, 16 SEPTEMBER 20261000: Stage at Moses People’s Community Park parking lot, 145-143 Village W Dr (c/o Krameria Ave and Village W Dr), March Air Reserve Base, CA.
https://maps.app.goo.gl/PuCw9RCLHHwZWFG181030: Mission brief and KSU to Palomares’ home.
1115-1130: Await arrival of Penny and our Hero and flag line of honor as they arrive. Rick “Moonman” Luna, brother Devil Dog, USMC, will call orders.
