Bennie D. Cassara, 92, AAF, WWII, Long Beach - 9 JAN 16

[John Gretzinger]

The family of Army Veteran Bennie D. Cassara has invited the Patriot Guard Riders to honor their hero for his service and sacrifice to his country.  It will be our privilege to do so.

CPL Cassara served with distinction in the Army Air Force 559th Base Unit stationed primarily in Europe and the Balkans from 1943 to 1945.  He was awarded the European-African-Middle East Campaign Medal with 7 Bronze Stars.  Additionally he received the American Theater Ribbon, Good Conduct Medal, and Distinguished Unit Badge.

Following military service, Bennie was a Masonry Contractor in Southern California until he retired around 1985. He went on to own and operate Casa Cassara Winery in Lompoc.

Bennie Cassara is survived by brother Angelo, sister Clara, sons Daniel and Robert, 8 grand children and 9 great grandchildren.

NOTE: This mission posting is to facilitate your voluntary participation in honoring this Military Veteran. For those interested, and all are welcome, we will be accompanying the hero and his family from the church to his final resting place.  For those who would prefer to go directly to the cemetery, we will meet you there.  Please arrive at the cemetery Not Later Than 11:15. 

Please see the timetable if you would like to participate.

Time Table for Saturday, 9 JAN 2016:

1015 - Stage Our Lady of Refuge Church, 5195 E. Stearns St., Long Beach, CA 90815 https://goo.gl/YgdRro
            Please arrive quietly as Services will be in progress
1030 - Mission Briefing
1100 - Flag Line for dignified transfer of Hero to coach
1115 - KSU to All Souls Cemetery, 4400 Cherry Ave., Long Beach, CA 90807 https://goo.gl/P8XFQq
1130 - Graveside Service and Military Honors

R/C:  Ken Holst
SoCal PGR Ride Captain
ca2whlcruzr@gmail.com
562-972-7882
“Courage is the price that life exacts for granting peace.” ~ Amelia Earhart

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 share your condolences at this link --> https://www.patriotguard.org/showthread.php?412790