The family of William Clifton Schmidt, also known as 'Wildman Bill' to his PGR family, have invited the Patriot Guard Riders to be there to honor Bill at his service and giving him his last ride to his resting place.
Bill Schmidt was one of the first members of the Patriot Guard in So California when it formed here in early 2006, having already joined with the original founding group in Kansas in 2005. He was very proud and passionate about his membership and service with the PGR. Bill was a great patriot and another thing near and dear to Bill's heart was the Los Angeles National Cemetery, where for several years he had organized and acted as Ride Captain for the annual laying of the wreaths for Wreaths Across America every December. Bill also served as a member of the Los Angeles National Cemetery Support Foundation.
Bill served in the USMC from 1971 to 1975, much of that time in Vietnam as a Combat Runner. He achieved the rank of LCpl, part of the backbone of the USMC (Pvts to LCpls). He was always proud of his service in the Corps and was always proudly a Marine. Toward the end of his enlistment, he transferred back to Camp Pendleton where he assisted in the transfer of Vietnam refugees into the United States.
After the military he worked for various companies as a systems engineer, including, but not limited to, Jorgensen Steel and Digital Consulting Services.
Bill loved riding his motorcycle, whether that was with the PGR to honor the Heroes, or with his friends. He loved riding his Indian when on his own or riding with the guys, but also loved riding the Harley when Patty could go with him, they went on many long rides together. Bill loved his family and his friends, and he chose them wisely and selectively. He was a private person so when he shared something meaningful with you, you knew he trusted you, and that was no small gift.
Bill is preceded in death by his father, William Henry Theodore Schmidt, and his sister Beverly 'Angel' Levin. Bill is survived by his loving wife Patty, his mother, Ernestine, his siblings Holly, Rhonda, and Ron. His children Colin (Catherine) Cathey, Jennie (Leo) Deegan, Marie Ratchford (Keith Gates), and his grandchildren Logan, Carleigh, Luca and Emma.
For all of us that knew him and called him friend, we will never forget you Bill, your courage, and your heart. Bill was a quiet man that inspired others in his steadfast loyalty to Family, Corps and Country. Rest easy Brother, your job here is done.
This will be a two part mission, on Friday 20 June we will attend the funeral service and military honors, on Monday, 23 June we will accompany the family and our Hero as he is taken to his last resting place.IMPORTANT: At the request of the family please do not repost this information on any other forums. NOTE: This mission posting is to facilitate your voluntary participation in honoring this Military Veteran.
Part 1 Time table for Friday, 20 JUN 14: 0830 - Staging at Rice Mortuary, 5310 Torrance Blvd., Torrance, CA 90503
http://goo.gl/maps/en9cJ 0845 - Mission briefing
0900 - Flag Line for family
0930 - Service begins
1030 - Est Flag line as service ends
At dismissal we will go to Riverside National Cemetery for the service of an Active Duty LEO and Marine Veteran, those of you who are available are welcome to ride with us. R/C Craig 'Gunny' DonorSo Calif State Captain
pgrgunny-001@yahoo.com
909-208-7703
Part 2 TBA 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 to post your condolences for the family at this link:
https://www.patriotguard.org/showthread.php?391709
