The family of US Army Corporal George Choma, age 94, has invited the Patriot Guard Riders to be present to honor their hero for his service. It will be our privilege to do so.
George was drafted into the US Army in the late 40’s and served in Korea with the 1st Cavalry Division 2nd Battalion 7th Cavalry Regiment. During this time, he was wounded in the shoulder and received the Purple Heart.
Before he was drafted, he was a professional baseball player and was getting ready to play in one of the National League baseball teams. Unfortunately, the war wound ended his baseball career. Upon discharge, he was placed on inactive reserve. George earned a Korean Service Medal, Combat Infantryman's Badge and the Purple Heart.
After George was discharged from the military, he worked in the newspaper industry. His last job was at the Long Beach Press Telegram where he worked as the Librarian.
Our hero’s wife passed away several years ago and he is survived by many grandchildren and great-grandchildren.
Note: This mission posting is to facilitate your voluntary participation in honoring this American Hero. For those interested, all PGR members are welcome, we will be accompanying the Hero and his family from the church to the cemetery, approx. 64 miles. Please see the timetable if you would like to participate. If you prefer to meet the procession at the cemetery, please feel free to do so.
Timetable for Monday 13 NOV 2023.1100 – Stage at Stricklin/Snively Mortuary 1952 Long Beach Blvd, Long Beach, CA 90806
https://maps.app.goo.gl/ZVgzmFNBM26BDwks7Note: The church service will be in session during the Mission Briefing, so please be respectful when rolling into the parking lot.
1115 - Mission briefing.
1150 - Flag line for transfer of our hero from the mortuary to the coach.
1200 - KSU to Riverside National Cemetery, 22495 Van Buren Boulevard, Riverside, CA 92518.
https://maps.app.goo.gl/4UXAWQS27R5S9sZw51330 – Approximate arrival at Riverside National Cemetery.
1345 – KSU to shelter for flag line of our hero from the coach to the gravesite for Military Honors.
TOM BARRY
PGR California State Captaincasc@patriotguard.org
714-206-1227
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.
