The family of Kenneth D. Jones has invited the Patriot Guard Riders to participate in their hero’s journey to his final resting place at Riverside National Cemetery. We are honored to fulfill this request.
Kenneth was a conscientious objector/non-combatant because of his strong religious beliefs but had a strong patriotic conviction. He, along with his two brothers, also conscientious objectors, believed it was their duty to serve their country during times of peace and during times of war but they were opposed personally to taking up arms. Kenneth served in the Army from August 1954 as a medical corpsman/combat medic. He achieved the rank of SP3 at the time of his honorable discharge in August 1956. He also served in the reserves until August 1962.
Of particular interest, Kenneth was the first human test subject in the Army’s project CD-22, later known as “Operation Whitecoat.” These tests provided scientists with the first details of how biological weapons move through the environment and affect the human body. Kenneth's participation, along with that of approximately 2,000 other Army soldiers, helped to develop medicines, vaccines and protective suits for anthrax, yellow fever, Q-Fever, tularemia, and several forms of encephalitis. These tests were instrumental in protecting troops against biological warfare agents.
As a civilian, Kenneth studied radiology and worked in the field of radiology for many years. He started the first mobile x-ray service in San Diego. He later became a licensed contractor and was involved in the building of many large building structures.
Kenneth loved camping and traveling in his 5th wheel. He visited every Presidential Library in the United States. He was also quite involved with several veteran programs including Honor Flights and the Snowball Express. He was involved with the Texas PGR, participating in missions and airport arrivals.
Kenneth is survived by his wife of 61 years, Carolyn, two daughters, Kenna and Susan, and son, Keith.
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 funeral home to his final resting place. 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.
TIMELINE FOR THURSDAY, 10 MARCH 20221115 - Stage at Acheson & Graham Garden of Prayer Mortuary, 7944 Magnolia Ave, Riverside, CA. (Please arrive quietly as services will be in progress)
https://goo.gl/maps/wjbG73YZz5xvg6aPA1145 - Mission griefing.
1200 - Flag line for hero from mortuary to waiting POV. Hero’s cremains will be transported in his classic ‘65 Chevy convertible driven by his son.
1215 - KSU to Riverside National Cemetery, 22495 Van Buren Blvd, Riverside, CA.
https://goo.gl/maps/4Vx2nmA8DVCTqzN661255 - KSU to shelter for military honors and service.
R/C Billy (BillyJean) Morgan
So Cal High Desert Ride Captain
US Army, Vietnam 69-70949-939-7282
“One straw at a time”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.
