The family of Rafael Garcia has invited the Patriot Guard Riders to be present to honor their hero for his service to his country. It will be our privilege to do so.
Rafael served proudly and honorably in the United States Air Force from October 7, 1954 to September 19, 1958, with the rank of A1C. He was an Airborne Radio Operator and received the Air Crew Member Badge and Good Conduct Medal.
Rafael worked for San Diego Gas & Electric Company for 38 years as an Electrician in the Underground Division. He loved riding his Harley motorcycle, working with his horses and was a member of the choir at his local church. He had a great talent for drawing portraits, playing the guitar and loved to putter around his property.
Rafael is survived by his loving wife, Sandra and children, Diana, Katherine, Helena, Angela, Christina, Raquel and David. He was preceded in death by his son, Michael. He was blessed with 17 grandchildren and 27 great grandchildren.
NOTE: This mission posting is to facilitate your voluntary participation in honoring this Military Veteran. For those interested, and all are welcome, we will be accompanying the hero from the family residence to his final resting place. Please see the time table if you would like to participate. For those who would rather go directly to the cemetery, we will meet you there.
Time Table for Tuesday, 14 Jan 2020 0830 – Stage at Pala Vista Gas Station, 29200 Valley Center Rd, Valley Center, CA 92982
https://goo.gl/maps/rzF8kgkbYcA4Z52f60850 – Mission Briefing
0900 – KSU to Family residence
0915 – Flag Line for honorable transfer to coach
0930 – KSU for accompaniment to Miramar National Cemetery, 5795 Nobel Dr. San Diego, CA 92122
https://goo.gl/maps/7oQ3TqthpCT679KL71030 – Est. arrival at Miramar National Cemetery
1100 – Flag Line for Military Honors and Funeral Service
R/C Lorenzo Lizarraga
SoCal PGR Regional Ride Captain619-971-2236
llizarraga@yahoo.com
You do not have to be a Veteran or a motorcycle rider to attend this mission. Everyone is 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 R/C (Ride Captain). 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.
