The family and friends of Thomas Carlson have requested the Patriot Guard Riders to stand in the gap for this American Hero who fought in a very unpopular war. It will be our honor to do so.
Thomas joined the Army on March 19, 1971 and completed his time in the Army with an honorable discharge on November 4, 1972. During his time in the Army, Thomas was promoted to Spec 4 Radioman and Teletype Operator in a combat zone. Thomas served with the 138th Avn Company. While in country, Thomas earned the following medals and citations: National Defense Service Medal, Vietnam Service Medal, Vietnam Campaign Service Medal with 60 device, sharp shooter rifleman badge, and a special operator bar.
After Tom’s time in the Army was up, he took jobs in the construction field and painted houses. He also worked for a short time for Mobil Oil.
Thomas never slowed down on anything and always continued to stay busy earning a living so that he could spend time with his family and enjoy the things life had to offer. Thomas and his wife, Teri, loved to travel in their RV and just enjoyed each other's company. Thomas loved to fish, golf, play roulette at casinos, frequent the horse races, attend Dodger, Rams, and Laker games.
Thomas was also great at having BBQs, entertaining friends, and playing with the family dogs. He spent the last years of his life traveling around the country with his beautiful bride and visiting friends. Unfortunately, Thomas was enjoying his time of traveling when he passed away suddenly in Arizona. He was brought back home where he will be laid to rest with the rest of the family.
Thomas leaves behind his loving wife, Teri, ten grandchildren, and four great- grandchildren
For this family and Vietnam Veteran, we will be there for them and to make an incredibly hard day a little bit better.
TIMETABLE FOR SATURDAY, 10 AUGUST 20241100: Stage at Holy Sepulcher Cemetery, 7845 E. Santiago Canyon Road, Orange, CA.
https://maps.app.goo.gl/62UhHEoorZopLfat6(Enter the main gate and there will be a gentleman at the gate to direct you where to go. If no one is there, enter the gate turn left, go to first street on the right and follow it all the way down. You will see the little columbarium where the service will take place. Park a little way down the road as there is expected to be 70 people there of family and friends.)1115: Mission briefing.
1145: Move over to final resting place.
1200: Services begin for our hero.
1300: Conclusion of service
Mike "Joker" Courtright
SoCal PGR / Ride Captain
mokynanapo@sbcglobal.net
714-321-3356"Standing For Those Who Stood For Us"Only two defining forces offered to die for you:
Jesus Christ, and the American Soldier.
One died for your soul, the other one died for your freedom.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.
