The family of John Harry Gerster 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.
John Harry Gertser, age 96, Served in the United States Army from March 12, 1943 - April 26, 1946.
He served as a medic in a forward aid station with the 369th Medical Battalion, Company C, 273rd Infantry Division, attached to the 69th Infantry. He was awarded the Bronze Star for his participation in the Battle of Monuments in Leipzig, Germany, on April 19, 1945.
John went on after WW2 to work for the Department of Water & Power, City of Los Angeles, 1959-1988. Prior to that he was a butcher, insurance salesman and a furniture store manager.
John’s wife Geraldine L. Gerster passed 14 years ago and was interned at Ft. Roasecrans. John passed in November of 2020 and was interned at Ft. Rosecrans with his wife then, but because of COVID he is now receiving his military honors. He leaves behind his children: Martha Korver, Diane McKibben, Jacquelyn Fisk, Richard Gerster; 11 grandchildren; and 8 great grandchildren.
This will be a flag line only at Ft. Rosecrans.
NOTE: This mission posting is to facilitate your voluntary participation in honoring this Military Veteran.
NOTE: Please observe the latest “COVID-19” restrictions.
Time Table for Wednesday August 11, 2021:1030 - Stage at Ft. Rosecrans National Cemetery
https://goo.gl/maps/wagXTsHJVYtvrUkp61100 - Mission Briefing
1115 – Stage at the cemetery Shelter
1130 - Flag Line, Funeral Service with Full Military Honors
R/C Stacey McCarthy “Lil Bit”(619)277-5176
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 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.
