The family of Joseph August Grone has invited the Patriot Guard Riders to accompany their hero to his final military honors. It will be our privilege to fulfill their request.
Joseph proudly served in the United States Marine Corps from 1956-1977. At the time of his retirement, he held the rank of Master Sergeant (E-8). He was an Aircraft Maintenance Chief and C-130 Flight Engineer. Joseph was presented Vietnam Service and Campaign Medals for his multiple tours in Vietnam, the Navy Commendation Medal, Air Medal (x2), Navy Cross of Gallantry w/Palm, and Special Achievement and Commendation Letters.
Following his service to America, he worked as a Security Guard at Todd’s Naval Shipyard, retiring after 20 years. Joseph was also a janitor for the Ocean View School District. He was crafty and skillful with his hands, enjoyed woodworking, and could fix anything. He was always looking for ways to support his family and friends with his skills. He enjoyed making things for the love of his life, Janet. They were married at ages 18 and 16, respectively. Sadly, Joseph passed away one day before their 69th wedding anniversary. He was also quick to pass on his skills to his children, grandchildren and great-grandchildren. Joseph enjoyed reading western novels and John Wayne movies.
Our hero is survived by his wife, Janet Grone, and children: David Joe Grone, Rodney Thomas Grone and Jayne Blythe Grone. He will also be missed by their 9 grandchildren, 9 great-grandchildren, as well as siblings Elsie, Horace, Donald, Diane, and Dawn. Our hero was preceded in death by siblings Butch and Pat.
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 2 miles. Please see the timetable if you would like to participate. For those who would rather go directly to the cemetery, we will meet you there.
TIMETABLE FOR WEDNESDAY, 10 DECEMBER 20251215: Stage at McKay’s Aftercare Burial,14427 Meridian Pkwy, Riverside, CA.
https://maps.app.goo.gl/hUpq6hinWfGvjpnN61230: Mission briefing.
1300-1315: Flag line for dignified transfer to coach.
1315: KSU to Riverside National Cemetery, 22495 Van Buren Blvd Riverside, CA. Others may stage at Lemay Blvd near the restrooms on the right).
https://maps.app.goo.gl/UAoAQTYkLzPAM6nn71330: ETA to RNC.
1400: KSU to assigned shelter for flag line and military honors.
Steve “Capt Chaos” Blumenfeld
SoCal PGR Ride Captain
SSGT USAF 1970-1974
steveb.pgrcc@gmail.com
(661) 212-2284You 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.
