The family of Austin Bert Fernald Sr. has requested the Patriot Guard to pay Honors for this American Hero from the "Greatest Generation". It will definitely be our Honor to do so.
Upon Graduation from High School "Bert",as he like to be called, joined the United States Army to defend his Country. He joined in January 22, 1943 during WWII. During Bert's time in the Army he served under the Command of General George S Patton, in the Third Army, 45th Division, 400AAA AW BTN, Battery C, Gun 6. Also during Bert's time in the Army he was at the Battle of the Bulge, and the battle of Sicily.
It was at the "Battle of the Bulge" Bert was hit by shrapnel which earned him the Purple Heart. The shrapnel that was in his body stayed with him to the grave. He always told the Doctors it doesn't hurt that bad so they decided to leave it in in, because the shrapnel was in close proximity to vital organs.
While Bert's unit was resting after liberating France each of the men was given a block of chocolate. Being the kind of guy Bert was he gave one piece to one kid. The youngster later came back with more kids so Bert ended up cutting up all the chocolate and managed to get some to each kid that was out there. Berts philosophy was "I know I am going to eat, I don't know when these kids will get to eat."
Bert was honorably discharged on October 24, 1945, as a Private First Class.
Bert was featured on the "History Channel" when they were doing a segment of Sicily and the storming of the beach. Bert also was invited to the White House for an interview.
Four yrs after Bert's Honorable Discharge he joined the Los Angeles Police Dept. Bert served from February 1, 1949 to February 1, 1972 (23 yrs.) at the Hollenbeck Division. Bert retired after 23 yrs of service to his community at the rank of (SLO) Senior Lead Officer. His son Austin Jr. now serves at Hollenbeck Division and has been serving faithfully for 36 yrs.
After retiring from the Police Dept, Bert then worked as head of Security for Sears & Roebuck in Los Angeles from 1972 to 1986.
Bert was also a member of the Purple Heart Foundation Redlands Chapter, the Los Angeles Police Department VA/VFW Post.
Bert passed away at the age of 95. He told his son Austin Jr. that he wanted to be buried in his Police uniform. Upon checking Bert's uniform, his son Austin decided that it was not presentable. Austin Jr. had his Dad dressed in his brand new police uniform complete with all his medals. The last medal to be pinned on was Bert's Purple Heart by his son Austin Jr. Austin B Fernald Sr passed on April 19, 2018.
Bert is survived by his wife of 63 years, Anita Fernald, Daughters: Lucille Zastera, Marian Fernald, Sons: Austin B Fernald Jr and Robert Fernald, and 10 grandchildren.
NOTE: This mission posting is to facilitate your voluntary participation in honoring this Military Veteran.
Time Table for Monday 30 April 2018:1200 - Stage at Rose Hills Memorial Chapel, (Gate 1), 3888 Workman Mill Rd, Whittier, CA 90601
https://goo.gl/maps/9QCSxUffD492(Directions from Gate One: Proceed past info booth Follow the blue painted curb line)1215 - Mission Briefing
1245 - Flag line for Hero as he is brought out from the coach to church
1300 - Service begins
1400 - Flag line as Hero is brought out from church to coach
1415 - KSU to final resting place
1430 - Flag line as Hero is brought from coach to final resting place
R/C Rick "Moonman" Luna
So Cal PGR Ride Captain
USMC VETERAN
LUNARDAD@msn.com
626-378 2304 cell
"I Ride for my fellow Marine and PGR RC Vincent Hernandez"
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.
