The family of Robert Joseph Rank has invited the Patriot Guard Riders to be present to honor their hero for his service to his country. It will be our privilege to do so.
Robert proudly served in the U.S. Marine Corps from 1971 to 1976, achieving the rank of Sergeant (E-5). He served during the Vietnam conflict with Aviation Detachment at Headquarters Group as a top-secret courier, then with Top Gun as an aviation structural mechanic at Miramar Naval Air Station. Bob was the first marine to receive the Navy Top Gun sailor of the quarter.
After his military service, Robert worked as an aviation mechanic at Teledyne-Ryan and North Island Naval Air Station until his retirement. During this time, Bob achieved a master mechanic rating.
Robert’s hobbies included Legion Riders Chapter 460 as a tail gunner, occasionally riding with Patriot Guard Riders, and being a Sprint car driver. Bob was also a Harley-Davidson mechanic and enjoyed ATV riding with his family, camping, cooking, and ping pong.
Bob is survived by his wife, Gail (Lanna) Rank, sons Nicholas and Keegan, and sisters Linda Abel, Wordan Rank, and Pauline Darby.
The family is requesting a Flag Line at Miramar National Cemetery
NOTE: This mission posting facilitates your voluntary participation in honoring this Military Veteran. For those interested, and all PGR members are welcome. We will hold a Flag Line at the cemetery. Please see the timetable if you would like to participate.
Time Table for Monday 13 February 2023
1300– Stage at Miramar National Cemetery, 5795 Nobel Dr. San Diego, CA 92122
https://goo.gl/maps/EtXYQi32JB442xf991330 – Mission Briefing
1400 – Flag Line for the arrival of the family
1410 – Flag Line for honorable transfer from the family vehicle to Final Honors carriage.
1430 – Flag Line for Military Honors and Funeral Service
R/C Lorenzo Lizarraga
SoCal PGR Regional Captain
619-971-2236
llizarraga@yahoo.com
We encourage those who do not ride to participate in your car. If this is your first mission, go to the initial staging area, where you will be briefed by the R/C (Ride Captain). Dress for motorcycle riding or wear casual attire if you are driving a cage (car). Please feel free to attend any portion of this mission you can. Please ride/drive safely.
Remember that our mission is to stand tall and silent 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. Remember, cemeteries are hallowed ground. Show respect to all who are there, not just the ones we honor.
