The family of Gilbert "Gil" Ronald Mellen has invited The Patriot Guard Riders to accompany Gil on his final journey. It will be our honor to do so.
Gil was born on 16 Aug 1942 and went home to the Lord 28 Oct 2020.
Gil entered the US Army on 29 Feb 60 and served until 8 Mar 63 when he was honorably discharged, with termination of reserve 28 Feb 66. Gil had always had a love for motorcycle and engines from an early age so it was no surprise that he was assigned to the 70th Engineer Battalion. He operated heavy equipment and qualified with a Marksman Badge on a Carbine and Expert with a rifle. He also received a Driver and Mechanic Badge w/Driver w/bar which helped him later become driver/bodyguard for General Katzenback.
After Gil's honorable discharge from the Army Gil worked as a marine mechanic in the local harbors. It was at this time he became involved in the motorcycle community and ABATE of California for 22years. He was Local 20 President, State PR Officer and on the State Board of Directors. It was the norm to see Gil in his ABAGTE attire shaking hands with legislators and anyone who would lend an ear, educating them the biker topic of the day.
Gil was introduced to local patched club members where he took root and grew. Gil was always spearheading charitable events and local political gatherings representing the voice of bikers under the cloak of ABATE. He was a familiar face and voice at the Southern California Confederation of Clubs monthly meetings.
Gil was also a 35 year member of the American Legion, Post 0291. Gil was a say what you mean, often brash, straight shooter type of guy. Although he may have ruffled a few feathers he will be sorely missed by many. Gil would ask that all up and coming freedom fighters to help support and fight the good fight.
Gil is survived by his sister Lola, and two daughters Beverly and Tammy. He touched many in the biker community and will be sorely missed.
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 family home to his final resting place. 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.
NOTE: PLEASE OBSERVE ALL COVID-19 PRECAUTIONS, MASKS/FACE COVERINGS MUST BE WORN AND 6 FT DISTANCING REQUIRED AT ALL TIMESTIME TABLE for Thursday, 07 JAN 2021:1030 - Stage at Jack In the Box, 1101 N. Magnolia Ave, Anaheim, CA 92801
https://goo.gl/maps/eGiCoGXJvQkKzeSA81045 - Mission Briefing
1055 - KSU to family home so please arrive quietly.
1100 - Arrive at family home
1125 - Flag Line for dignified transfer of Hero to private vehicle and immediately prepare for departure.
1130 - KSU to Riverside National Cemetery, 22495 Van Buren Blvd., Riverside, CA 92518
https://goo.gl/maps/gdXsmj4mHU8ShRuC91230 - ETA Riverside National Cemetery
1300 - KSU to assigned shelter for Flag Line and Military Honors if RNC Covid guidelines permit
RC/CRAIG LANE AKA JIP-C, USMC
SOCAL PGR RIDE CAPTAINbigredroadglide@yahoo.com
760-900-0388
You do not have to be a Veteran or a motorcycle rider to attend this mission. All PGR members 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 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.
