The family of Kay Katsumi Okuda has invited the Patriot Guard Riders to join them as they bid a final farewell to their Hero. We are honored and privileged to fulfill their request.
Kay (a long time nickname because people had difficulty pronouncing Katsumi) entered the US Army on 24 October 1967 and was honorably discharged on 28 May 1969 at the rank of Sergeant. While in country, he served as a radio mechanic/operator on the multipurpose ship USS Westchester (county) anchored in the muddy waters of the My Tho River in the Mekong Delta. He went ashore one afternoon to pick up mail and some supplies. When he returned the following morning he saw his ship in ruins and 25 of his fellow crew deceased. The ship had been blown up by VC frogmen at 0330 hours.
Sadly, Kay passed of Pancreatic Cancer on 16 December 2021. As a civilian he worked for Lucky Supermarkets and for short periods as a long shore man and school custodian. He loved collecting toy cars and talking with people.
Kay is survived by his wife Roberta Okuda, Children Lise Roberts and John Okuda, four grandchildren and siblings Kathy Ujiiye and Jim Okuda.
NOTE: This mission posting is to facilitate your voluntary participation in honoring this Military Veteran.
NOTE: Please observe the latest “COVID-19” restrictions and have a face covering should the need arise.Time table for Tuesday, 11 January 2022:1115: Stage at Riverside National Cemetery, 22495 Van Buren Blvd., Riverside, CA 92518
https://goo.gl/maps/2XEgBDYSxBDzaeiA71130: Mission briefing
1200: KSU to Cemetery Cortege
1230: KSU to assigned shelter for Flag Line, military honors and services.
R/C Billy (Billyjean) Morgan
So Cal PGR Ride CaptainHigh Desert
US Army, Vietnam 69-70
949-939-7282
“Be like Vern”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.
