The family of James Gallegos has requested the presence of the Patriot Guard Riders, to Honor their loved one and Hero. It will be our Honor to do so.
James was born in 1930. After completing High School and doing different odd jobs, he found out that he was rather good at repairing and finding out what made things work.
James decided it was time to stop just doing a lot of jobs and wanted to do one job. So, he joined the U.S. Army on June 13th, 1958, and served 4 yrs., getting his Honorable Discharge on April 26th, 1961.
James went thru basic training at Fort Lewis, Washington.
After boot camp James was assigned to the 56th Engineering Group, working on both construction and was also taught the workings of avionics of airplanes.
James did all of his time stateside but nevertheless was always very proud that he served his Country and was willing to go wherever the Army decided to send him.
James received his Honorable Discharge on April 26, 1961. During that time, he earned the rank of Spec. Tech 4 (E-4). He was awarded the National Defense Service Medal.
Upon his separation from the Army James got a job at McDonald Douglas and Northrop Grumman. James applied some of his Army training and became an Aerospace Engineer working on jet fighters. He applied that trade until the day of his retirement.
In James retirement phase he began woodworking and working on cars. He then started hosting family gatherings, taking road trips, landscaping and gardening.
He then started coaching softball for his daughters and also took up golfing. Then, when he got tired, it was time to start camping and enjoying what the good Lord had put on this planet for us to enjoy.
James was a real man of integrity and a father figure to many. He just never stopped loving people.
James never stopped wanting to help people and was a servant to many.
James's wife Matilda, pre-deceased him 2 yrs. ago and they both leave behind: His Sister: Judy, Lorraine and brother Louis.
Daughters: Maria, Katherine, Jamie. Son in Laws: Frank, Mauricio and Makana. He also leaves behind 5 Grandchildren: Aaron, Emily, Matthew, Addison, & Greyson
Note: This mission posting is to facilitate your voluntary participation in honoring this American Hero. For those interested and all PGR members are welcome. We will be accompanying the Hero and his family from the Church to the cemetery (approx. 3 miles). 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.
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.
Time Table for Friday 13 Sept. 20241330 - Stage at Holy Trinity Catholic Church, 1292 W Santa Cruz St., San Pedro, Ca. 90732 (
https://maps.app.goo.gl/hF86crdJ3NT6C2kK9)
1345 - Mission Briefing
1415 - Flagline as Hero is brought out to coach
1430 - KSU to Green Hills Memorial Cemetery, 27501 S. Western Ave., Rancho Palos Verdes, Ca. 90275 (
https://maps.app.goo.gl/13E9dJNundZDDfjf8)
1445 - Arrive Green Hills Memorial Cemetery
1500 - Final Services and Military Honors begin for our American Hero.
"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."
R/C Mike "Joker" Courtright
So Cal PGR / Ride Captain
mokynanapo@sbcglobal.net
714-321-3356
"Standing for those who stood for us"
"Patriot Guard Ride Captain" #202572
Orange County, Calif.
Only 2 defining forces offered to die for you:
Jesus Christ, and the American Soldier:
One died for your soul, the other one died for your freedom.
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.
