The family of Donald Ward 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.
Donald joined the United States Air Force on April 3, 1969 and served honorably until April 2, 1973. During that time, Donald earned the rank of Staff Sergeant. A Vietnam veteran, Donald received the Purple Heart, a Bronze Star, and the Vietnam Service Medal. Donald was very proud of his service and his opportunity to defend his country so much so that he went on and worked as a civilian contractor on North Island for more than 40 years.
Donald and Nancy married just after Donald’s time in the service. They did not have children. Donald love riding his Harley and went to Sturgis for the bike week many times. He loved just packing up his saddlebags and taking off! Donald loved to cook and was also a great chef. He loved gardening and loved cats. Donald was just 73 when he passed.
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 and his family from the mortuary to the cemetery, approximately 26 miles. Please see the time table if you would like to participate. For those who would rather go directly to the cemetery, we will meet you there.
NOTE: The weather has been warming up so please stay hydrated.TIMETABLE FOR THURSDAY, 20 JULY 20230845 - Stage at Alhiser-Comer Mortuary, 225 S. Broadway, Escondido, CA.
https://goo.gl/maps/pjzSLitkeCA39Ea2A0915 - Mission briefing.
0920 - Flag line transfer of Hero to family car.
0930 - KSU for Miramar National Cemetery, 5795 Nobel Dr., San Diego, CA.
https://goo.gl/maps/ZktmDXBhRc2L1otY61000 – ETA at Miramar National Cemetery.
1030 - Flag line and funeral service with military honors.
Stacey “Lil Bit” McCarthy
SoCal Patriot Guard Ride Captain
(619)277-5176You 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
