The family of Michael Richard Simonian has invited the Patriot Guard Riders to participate in their hero’s final journey. We are honored to fulfill this request.
Our hero enlisted in the Army on 15 July 1968 and was honorably discharged on 14 July 1974. He worked in data processing for the National Security Agency and stationed in Virginia and Okinawa. His rank at time of discharge was SP5 (E-5). He was awarded the National Defense Service Medal, Sharpshooter with the M-14 rifle, and Expert Badge for the M-16.
Following his discharge, Michael went to school and became a dentist, practicing dentistry for 40 years. He worked for three years following a diagnosis of colon cancer and the beast finally took him in year four.
Our hero is survived by his loving wife, Genya Simonian, and two daughters, Michaeleen and Tatiahna. He will also be missed by his grandchildren.
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 2 miles. Please see the timetable if you would like to participate. For those who would rather go directly to the cemetery, we will meet you there.
TIMETABLE FOR WEDNESDAY, 17 JANUARY 20241100: Stage at East Hills Community Church, 20660 Orange Terrace Pkwy, Riverside, CA.
https://maps.app.goo.gl/jGpKgcZpBSCMCwoz5(Please arrive quietly as service will be in session.)
1130: Mission briefing.
1140: Flag line for transfer of our hero from the church to the coach and immediate departure for accompaniment to RNC.
1200: Arrival at RNC and proceed to staging lane.
1230: Shelter for military honors and service.
Billy “BillyJean” Morgan
SoCal High Desert Ride Captain
US Army, Vietnam 69-70
949-939-7282“One Straw at a Time”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.
