The family of SFC Rafael Lopez (Ret) has invited the Patriot Guard Riders to be present to honor this hero for his service to his country. It will be our privilege to do so.
Rafael Lopez was born in Guadalajara, Mexico and moved to El Centro, CA in 1950. He graduated high school in El Centro, and went on to serve in the US Army where he was a helicopter mechanic. He retired from the Army in 1986 at the rank of Sergeant First Class/E7 after 22 years.
SFC Lopez was a veteran of the Vietnam War (1971-1972). During his 22 years service he was also stationed in Korea and Germany. For his service he received the following ribbons, medals and citations: Cross of Gallantry with Palm, National Defense Service Medal, Army Service Ribbon, Vietnam Service Medal w/4 Service Stars, Armed Forces Expeditionary Medal, Vietnam Campaign Medal, 2 Overseas Service Bars, Meritorious Service Medal, Vietnam, Overseas Service Ribbon w/Numeral 2, NCO Professional Development Ribbon, Sharpshooter (M16 Rifle), Good Conduct Medal (7th Award).
In civilian life Rafael was a leader within the community of El Centro, serving as a supervisor for the USDA-RD for 19 years.
Rafael enjoyed painting, singing, collecting and traveling. And he was an avid reader.
SFC Lopez is survived by his wife, two daughters and his two grandchildren.
This mission is for a
Flag Line Only at the cemetery.
NOTE: This mission posting is to facilitate your voluntary participation in honoring this Military Veteran. If you would like to participate, and all are welcome, please see the time table below.
NOTE: The weather is predicted to be hot so please stay hydrated and don't forget to eat, it can make a difference with your ability to withstand the heat. Time Table for Friday, July 31, 2015:1030 - Stage at Evergreen Cemetery, 201 East Gillett Street, El Centro, CA 92243
https://goo.gl/maps/Y50mN1045 - Mission Briefing
1100 - Stand by for Flag Line
1115 - (Approx) Flag Line, Funeral Service with Full Military Honors
R/C Walt PatroskeAZ PGR Ride Captain
619-507-4412
waltz2@roadrunner.com
SFC Rafael Lopez You do not have to be a Veteran or a motorcycle rider to attend this mission. Everyone is 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 R/C (Ride Captain). 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 leave your condolences for the family at the following link:
https://www.patriotguard.org/showthread.php?406581
