The family of Retired Colonel William Albert Cockayne, 88, has invited the Patriot Guard Riders to attend the military honors of their loved one as he makes his final journey. It will be our honor to do so.
Colonel Cockayne was born on 05 Feb 1934 and entered eternal rest on 08 Mar 2022. He served an illustrious 28-year career with the United States Air Force and attained the rank of Colonel. Before being honorably discharged, his career spanned from flying B47 to B130 aircraft, working on the Titan 2 Missile, and later military Chief of Police in Grand Forks, Nebraska and Germany. His military career took him from Vietnam, Philippines, England, Vandenburg, North Dakota, Germany and finally retiring at March AFB. His eldest daughter, Deborah, followed his footsteps, entering the Air Force legacy and flying the AC-130 Gunship.
He received numerous accolades while in the Air Force as well as the Lady of Guadalupe Award from St. Patrick’s Church in 2010 for his volunteer work
After retirement from the Air Force, William decided to completed his degree in criminal justice. However, he eventually went to work in the aerospace industry, working for General Dynamics.
After retiring for the last time, William and his wife of 68 years enjoyed traveling. He also enjoyed woodworking and creating countless holiday displays.
William is survived by his beloved wife, Ann, four children, seven grandchildren, and is blessed with countless other family and friends.
NOTE: This mission posting is to facilitate your voluntary participation in honoring this Military Veteran. For those interested, and all PGR members are welcome, this is a flag line only (FLO) mission at Riverside National Cemetery. For those who would like to participate, please see the timetable and we will meet you there.
TIMETABLE FOR TUESDAY, 12 APRIL 20221200 – Stage at Riverside National Cemetery, 22495 Van Buren Blvd, Riverside, CA.
https://goo.gl/maps/pXkje23vY6XHYsxG61215 – Mission briefing.
1230 – Await arrival of Hero and KSU to assigned cortège.
1245 – KSU to assigned shelter for flag line and military honors.
Lillian Riddell
SoCalPGR Mission Ops/Ride Captain
lilygirl54@roadrunner.com(909) 855-2623
“Life isn’t about waiting for the storm to pass; it’s about learning to dance through the rain”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.
