The family of Frank Lobo has invited the Patriot Guard Riders to participate in their hero’s final journey. We are honored to fulfill this request.
Our hero was a member of the US Army from 6/54 to 9/58 and was honorably discharged at the rank of PFC (E-3). The following is an account of his service written by his son, Frank.
“My father was an Airborne Ranger Paratrooper and served in the Korean Conflict. His division was dropped into a very hostile landing zone and were immediately fired upon by Chinese troops. After suffering large casualties of American troops, they were forced to withdraw the hill and during this time, he was shot in the leg and buttocks. After being treated for his injuries in Okinawa Japan, he elected to stay and fight against the North Koreans instead of returning home for his injuries. He remained in Korea for another year fighting several battles above the 38th Parallel. In June of 1958, the Rangers were in a close quarters battle and were forced into hand-to-hand combat. He stood his position and during that fight, suffered a bayonet wound to his side. Unfortunately, he was forced to take the life of the North Korean soldier. He was again sent to the Army hospital in Okinawa for his wound. He then was awarded two Purple Hearts for his injuries. He was then sent home where he was Honorably Discharged. He received two Purple Hearts, the Korean War Medal, Cold War Medal, Expert Marksmanship Medal and Airborne Ranger Wings.
As a civilian, Frank spent 25 years in electrical engineering for General Dynamics developing military weapons that are still being used today; 20 years as a youth counselor at a California prison helping to rehabilitate young offenders; was a semi pro handball player; was a great umpire.” (slightly edited for punctuation)Our hero was preceded in death by his loving wife of 61 years, Rita, and his daughter, Linda. He is survived by three children, Frances, Frank and Daniel. He will also be missed by 10 grandchildren and 8 great grandchildren. Frank came from a family of 18 children.
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 mortuary to the cemetery, approximately 29 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.
TIMETABLE FOR WEDNESDAY, 20 DECEMBER 2023 1115: Stage at Draper Mortuary, 811 Mountain Ave., Ontario, CA (quiet arrival please as services will be in session).
https://maps.app.goo.gl/JaZpB4tUKqvRVDF581145: Mission briefing.
1200: Dignified transfer from chapel to coach and KSU to Riverside National Cemetery, 22495 Van Buren Blvd. Riverside, CA. (29 miles)
https://maps.app.goo.gl/gKWVAUqPcSKzSFJ191300: ETA to RNC and proceed to assigned staging lane.
1330: Shelter for military honors and services.
Billy (BillyJean) Morgan
SoCal High Desert Ride Captain
US Army, Vietnam 69-70
949-939-7282“One straw at a time.”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.
