The family of Eldred Merle Smith 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.
Eldred passed away at the age 94 of natural causes.
Eldred joined the Navy in May 1948 & was honorably discharged in May of 1952 at the rank of ET-3. He was in a severe bus accident and had 3rd degree burns over 85% of his body. Was assigned to hospital for 2 years. He was assigned office work as he went through uncountable surgeries to treat the burn damages.
Eldred worked as a Civilian Contractor for the Navy with top security clearance on the point at Point Loma when it was called NEL, NOSC Space Wars from May 28. 1952 and retired April 30, 2016, just 7 years ago. He traveled the world doing his job. When he was asked what he did he would tell his family,” If I told you, I would have to kill you “. (Daughters words)
He had amazing and varied experiences and hobbies here's the list: played banjo and formed the Mission Valley River Bottom Boys Band that played at many functions and on Regis Philbin late night San Diego show, built an airplane with neighbors, scuba diver, surfer, motorcycle rider, ham radio operator, bowler, ran 10k's with his daughter in his 60's, genealogy, ocean kayaking, backpacking and hiking as Scoutmaster in boy scouts, worked on pilot's license, firing range RSO, stained glass, photography and developed his own pictures, KPBS program technician, and so much more. He believed in giving exposure to everything to be able to really find what you would love.
He is survived by his children, Lysa Garnett, Leslie Smith, Nancy Baron, 4 grandchildren, & 2 great grandchildren.
The family is asking for a Flag Line Only.
NOTE: This mission posting facilitates your voluntary participation in honoring this Military Veteran. For those interested, all PGR members are welcome. Please see the timetable if you would like to participate.
Time Table for Tuesday June 27th. 2023 1020 - Stage Miramar National Cemetery, 5795 Nobel Dr, San Diego, CA 92122,
https://goo.gl/maps/5QAdq3tTzNszofKKA 1030 - Mission briefing
1045 - Flag Line for family & remains to enter lane 2 at Miramar.
1100 - Transfer Eldred to the “Final Honors Coach”.
1115 - Full Military Honors
R/C Russell Jubenville
619-7294713Bigruss3@gmail.com
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 is your first mission, go to the initial staging area, and you will be briefed by the R/C (Ride Captain). Dress for motorcycle riding or wear casual attire while 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 the radios off and engine noise to a minimum. Show respect to all who are there, not just the ones we honor.
