We have been invited by the family of Norman Douglas Birch, 76, to be present as he receives his military honors; we are privileged to do so.
Norm graduated from high school in Osmond, Nebraska, in 1964 and joined the United States Air Force right after graduation. He served in the Air Force from May 22, 1964, to January 25, 1968. At the time of entry, he was a basic airman. He earned two medals, National Defense Service Medal and Air Force Good Conduct Medal. He earned the rank of Sergeant on October 1, 1967.
Once he completed his time with the Air Force, Norman and his wife Joyce lived in Nebraska for nearly three years. During their time in Nebraska, Norm worked as a security guard and then became a Deputy Sheriff. Joyce quickly tired of Nebraska weather; she hated the snow. Joyce chose the earthquakes of California over the snowstorms of Nebraska. So they moved back to California and settled in Palm Springs, where Norman began working for the Desert Water Agency, where he became a supervisor and worked
for a total of 33 years.
Norman is survived by his wife Joyce Birch, Daughter Shelley Smith, Son Eric Birch, Grandson Tyler Birch, Granddaughters Kirsten Birch, Haley Birch, Megan Letts, and Great granddaughters Layla and Marla.
NOTE: This mission posting is to facilitate your voluntary participation in honoring this Military Veteran.
NOTE: Please observe the latest “COVID-19” restrictions.
Time Table for Thursday, 28 July 2022
0800 – Stage at Riverside National Cemetery, 22495 Van Buren Blvd., Riverside, CA 92518 (PGR Staging: enter at the first roundabout, intersection of Normandy and Darby, north of staging area #9)
http://goo.gl/maps/v0K0E0815 – Mission Briefing.
0900 – KSU to the assigned gravesite for Flag line, Service, and Military Honors
R/C Clint "Smurf" Martin
So Cal PGR Ride Captain
lltk@sbcglobal.net
951-505-6362
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 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 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.
