The family of Command Sergeant Major Gregory Albert Gunning, 76, has invited the Patriot Guard Riders to be present to honor their hero for his service to his country. It will be our privilege to do so.
CSM Gunning was born in Columbus, Ohio and was drafted into the Army in 1967. CSM Gunning served 35 years in the Army and Army Reserve retiring in 2002. CSM Gunning’s last duty assignment was Command Sergeant Major of the 1394 ASG which provided Command and control to over 1500 Soldiers in Southern California. CSM Gunning was awarded the Legion of Merit, the Meritorious Service Medal, and many other awards and commendations during his 35 years of Service.
CSM Gunning was an avid reader, especially enjoying Tom Clancy novels. He spent much of his free time building things and there was never a household construction project he couldn’t tackle. Outdoor summer concerts with his wife were a constant, with trips to San Diego to see the Boston Pops a common occurrence. CSM Gunning was a big USC Trojan fan and was seldom seen without his USC baseball cap. CSM Gunning had a passion for world history, particularly military history, and often sought out visits to Civil War battlefields.
CSM Gunning is survived by his wife of 51 years, Gaylene Gunning, children Bradley and Melissa, 3 grandchildren, brothers Francis, James, and Michael, and sister Wendy, as well as numerous nieces and nephews. CSM Gunning was a leader and a mentor to many young Soldiers and NCOs. He will be greatly missed by his family, loved ones and those he served with. Rest In Peace Command Sergeant Major Gunning.
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 chapel service to his final resting place. Please see the time table if you would like to participate. For those who would rather go directly to the cemetery, we will meet you there.
Time Table for Wednesday, August 17th, 2022:1300 - Stage St John’s Catholic Church, 1001 Encinitas Blvd, Encinitas CA 92024
https://goo.gl/maps/EnPtQuua3wGu6JAw91315 - Mission Briefing
1330 - Flag Line for Dignified Transfer of Hero to Coach
1345 - KSU for Miramar National Cemetery, 5795 Nobel Dr, San Diego, CA 92122
https://goo.gl/maps/iSoes7uHMZEUD3Kq71430 - (Est) Arrive at Miramar National Cemetery
1500 - Flag Line, Funeral Service with Military Honors
R/C Stacey McCarthy “Lil Bit”
So Cal PGR Ride Captain(619) 277-5176
smoerschell@yahoo.com
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 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.
