The family of Thomas Palmer 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.
Thomas Palmer joined the Army in 1971 and proudly served until 1973 where he obtained the rank of PVT. Thomas was an Army medic and although he did not serve time in Vietnam, he was state side holding up the wounded veterans sent home.
Thomas was never married and did not have children but he was very close to his brother and two sisters as well as his mom who is still living. Thomas had many hobbies but his biggest love was for cars, especially Corvettes and was proud of the one he owned. Thomas and his brother Gary obtained their private pilot’s license and loved flying. He also loved football and the Raiders was his favorite team.
Nearly two years ago Thomas was diagnosed with esophageal cancer and his brother Gary moved him to San Diego to be near family. Ultimately it was the cancer that took his life.
** Please note that as of now the weather is forecasting rain. I will be attending in my car if that is the case. The family will be meeting us at Miramar, so if it’s raining it would be the best choice to meet at Miramar by 9:00am**
NOTE: This mission posting is to facilitate your voluntary participation in honoring this Military Veteran. For those interested, and all PRG are welcome, we will be accompanying the hero and his family from the Partridge Creek Mortuary to his final resting place approx. 16 miles. 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 Tuesday 17 JAN 2023 0800- Stage at Partridge Creek Mortuary 10330 Mission Gorge Road Santee, CA 92071
https://goo.gl/maps/ncNXT7Y2t57UUX736 0815 – Mission Briefing
0830- KSU for Miramar National Cemetery
0900- (Est) Arrive at Miramar National Cemetery, 5795 Nobel Dr, San Diego, CA 92122
https://goo.gl/maps/t5iZZCgsD9k 0930- Flag Line, Funeral Service with Military Honors Miramar National Cemetery, 5795 Nobel Drive San Diego, CA 92122
https://goo.gl/maps/TiRRZ9PRqwC2XUm97 R/C Stacey McCarthy “Lil Bit”
(619)277-5176You 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.
Remember that our mission is to stand tall and silent 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. Show respect to all who are there, not just the ones we honor.
