The family of Rafael Navarro, age 74, 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 proudly served in the U.S. Army, enlisting in 1971 and achieving the rank of Sgt (E5) prior to his retirement. He worked as an Airplane Mechanic for over 40 years at North Island, both while in the military and later as a civilian employee. Rafael was awarded the National Defense Service Medal; Marksman Badge with Rifle Bar (M-16); Good Conduct Medal.
Rafael is survived by his son; James (Wife-Jessica) and daughter; Christina (Husband Reno), 10 grandkids; Jamie, Christopher, Emilio, Nicholas, Candy, Davina, Christina, Angie, Mia and Luna. 1 Great-grandson Jessiah. He has 2 surviving sisters; Luz and Julia and 1 surviving brother Amador. Plus lots of nieces and nephews.
NOTE: This mission posting facilitates your voluntary participation in honoring this Military Veteran. For those interested, and all PGR members are welcome, we will be accompanying our hero and his family from the Chapel to his final resting place, approx 14 miles. Please see the timetable if you would like to participate. We will meet you there for those who would rather go directly to the cemetery.
Time Table for Friday 25 March 2022:1130 – Stage at Greenwood Memorial Park & Mortuary 4300 Imperial Ave
San Diego, CA 92113
https://goo.gl/maps/S34aUZKPDTqwguPt9 1150 – Mission Briefing
1215 – Flag Line for honorable transfer of Hero to coach
1230 – KSU to Ft Rosecrans National Cemetery, 1700 Cabrillo Memorial Dr, San Diego, CA 92106
https://goo.gl/maps/o9dCHKcCXdifXK4M7 (Approx 14 miles)
1300 – EST arrival at Ft Rosecrans
1330 – Flag Line for Military Honors and Funeral Service
R/C Lorenzo Lizarraga
SoCal PGR Regional Captain619-971-2236
llizarraga@yahoo.com
We encourage those who do not ride to participate in your car. If this is your first mission, go to the initial staging area, where you will be briefed 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.
Remember that our mission is to stand tall and silent 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. Remember, cemeteries are hallowed ground. Show respect to all who are there, not just the ones we honor.
