The family of Benjamin “Benny” Hernandez has invited the Patriot Guard Riders to honor him for his military service. It is our honor to do so.
Benny proudly served in the US Navy on the USS Navarro APA 215 (Troop Transport) from 12 August 1964 to 09 August 1968, during the Vietnam War. He was a CS3 (Culinary Specialist 3) at the time of his Honorable Discharge. During his military service he earned the following: Navy Meritorious Unit Commendation, Vietnam Service Medal with two Stars, and Vietnam Campaign Medal.
Benny was born 29 May 1946 and passed away 04 January 2021. After his Honorable Discharge from the Navy, he worked as a sales representative in the beverage industry for 35 years. He enjoyed playing the drums and timbales. He also taught himself how to play the guitar.
Benny is survived by his wife, Eleanor; sister, Virginia; daughter, Janine; son, Mark; and four grandchildren.
NOTE: This mission posting is to facilitate your voluntary participation in honoring this Military Veteran. For those interested, and all PGR members are welcome, we will be accompanying the Hero from the church to the cemetery. Please see the timetable below if you would like to participate. For those who would rather go directly to the cemetery, we will meet you there.
NOTE: Some Covid protocols are still in effect at Riverside National Cemetery. Bring a face covering/should the need arise.
NOTE: It is expected to be hot outside. PLEASE, continue to hydrate. TIMETABLE FOR FRIDAY, 30 JULY 2021
1030 – Stage at St. Catherine of Alexandria Catholic Church, 3680 Arlington Ave, Riverside, CA 92506
https://goo.gl/maps/kimuYj94vJijwaFS6 (Please arrive quietly as the service will be in progress)
1045 – Mission briefing
1110 – Flag Line as Benny is moved from the church to the awaiting vehicle
1115 – KSU to Riverside National Cemetery 22495 Van Buren Boulevard, Riverside, CA 92518
https://goo.gl/maps/WJnnxiYicEEXWjiNA (PGR staging: On E. Normandy near the first roundabout)
1140 – ETA at Riverside National Cemetery
1145 – KSU to assigned Committal/Shelter
Brenda “Pebbles” Bixler
SoCal PGR Ride Captain
Bixler.brenda@yahoo.com 951-522-6847
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.
