The family of James Skahan, 85, has invited the Patriot Guard Riders to attend their hero’s Military Honors as he makes his final journey. We are privileged to honor their request.
James served on active duty in the United States Army from 01/61 - 01/68. At the time of his separation, he was a Captain (O-3). He was an enlistee and served in South Korea (KMAG). He later attended OCS at Fort Benning where he received his commission. He served a tour of duty in Vietnam in 1966-67 in ground operations. Our hero was awarded a Bronze Star for that service.
Unfortunately, James was also afflicted with the effects of Agent Orange. He was rated 100% disabled with lung cancer, Parkinson’s Disease and Dementia.
Following his honorable Army service, he owned & Operated (2) Franchise Restaurants, sold real estate and was a district sales manager at Pillsbury Co. Our hero was also committed to serving the youth of Newport Beach. He not only was a recreation leader for that city but was also a mentor to his younger associates. He was dedicated to supervising the annual youth programs in Newport Beach and served as race chairman of the Corona Del Mar 5k for 19 years.
Our hero is survived by his loving wife of 60 years, Carol. She was a State Department dependent who met James while they were both in South Korea. James also leaves behind their two sons, Michael and Kevin as well as two grandsons, Connor and Ryan.
Note: This mission posting is to facilitate your voluntary participation in honoring this American Hero. For those interested and all PGR members are welcome. Please see the timetable if you would like to participate. If you prefer to meet the procession at the cemetery, please feel free to do so.
"The weather is predicted to be hot please stay hydrated and don't forget to eat. It can make a difference with your ability to withstand the heat."Timetable for Wednesday, 19 July 2023 0930 - Stage at Riverside National Cemetery, 22495 Van Buren Blvd., Riverside, CA 92518, (Lemay Blvd, near the restrooms).
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https://goo.gl/maps/T2kTjRpwu7Egba1W8)
0945 - Mission briefing.
1000 - Await arrival of Hero and KSU to assigned cortège.
1030 - KSU to assigned shelter for flag line and military honors.
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
RC Steve Blumenfeld
aka Captain Chaos
SoCal PGR R/C
SSGT USAF 1970-1974
661-212-2284
steveb507alrpgr@gmail.com
