The family of Jose Mendoza Cortez 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.
Jose Mendoza Cortez served proudly in the United States Air Force from 1965 to 1986 retiring after 21 years. Jose Cortez was very proud of his service in the Air Force and obtained the rank of Master Sergeant (E7). Jose received the Air Force commendation medal with two oak leaf clusters, good conduct medal with five oak leaf clusters, National Defense service medal and the Vietnam service medal with three bronze stars.
Jose had several hobbies but one of his favorites was photography, especially taking pictures of his grandkids. He also loved to travel and after he fully retired in 2008, he was dedicated to traveling the globe, in fact just one month prior to his illness he had returned from a trip to Greece. He enjoyed exploring the city and watching San Diego change over the last several decades. Jose and his son Paul had many beers, in many bars, in many neighborhoods. He will be very missed.
NOTE: This mission posting is to facilitate your voluntary participation in honoring this Military Veteran. For those interested, and all PGR are welcome, we will be accompanying the hero and his family from Funeraria del Angel to his final resting place, approx. 20 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 Thursday January 19th, 20231130- Stage at Funeraria Del Angel, 753 Broadway, Chula Vista, CA 91910
https://goo.gl/maps/H8ESXCe51vG4M1K39 11;45 – Mission Briefing
12;00- Flag Line for Dignified Transfer to Coach
12;15- KSU for Miramar National Cemetery
12;45- (Est) Arrive at Miramar National Cemetery, 5795 Nobel Drive, San Diego, CA 92122
https://goo.gl/maps/8iw5pu66AbJr5pT27 1315 - Flag Line, Funeral Service with Military Honors Miramar National Cemetery, 5795 Nobel Drive, San Diego, CA 92122
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 is your first mission, go to the initial staging area, and you will be briefed by the R/C (Ride Captain). Dress for motorcycle riding or wear casual attire while 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.
