2nd UPDATE: PGR will NOW be accompanying the Hero from Torres Mortuary in Monterey Park to Riverside National Cemetery. Please see timetable changes below.The family of Robert William Campbell (83) have invited the Patriot Guard Riders to accompany him to his final resting place. It is our honor to do so.
Robert served in the United States Navy for a total of 33 years between active duty and then 27 years in the Reserve. Robert arrived in Vietnam in February 1970 as a Boat Captain of STAB 18. Strike Assault Boats (STAB) were specifically designed to transport SEALS on missions. They were fast and heavily armed. They also patrolled in the Mekong Delta area primarily at night. Robert saw action on numerous missions. In fact, on his first mission, his boat was pinned down by enemy fire and had to call in air support. Robert achieved the rank of SR Chief Boatswain Mate (BMCS) E-7. Robert was awarded the Vietnam Service Medal with two bronze stars, National Defense Service Medal, RVN Campaign Medal with devices, and Combat Navy Commendation with Combat “V” device.
After his active duty, Robert worked for the City of Cypress for 16 years starting as a maintenance worker and moved up to Public Maintenance Supervisor for 27 years. He remained in the Navy Reserve during his entire employment.
Robert loved riding motorcycles. He was an active 20-year member of the Viet Nam Vets Legacy Vets Motorcycle Club and his road name was "Ridgerunner." He also loved RVing.
Robert is survived by his wife Phyllis, one daughter and one son, along with two grandchildren. Robert was one of eight children, two brothers and five sisters, growing up in a pre-Civil War farm home.
Robert served our nation with honor and will be forever remembered by all.
Of note, we will be joined by the Viet Nam Vets Legacy Vets MC at RNC.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 56 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 MONDAY, 08 JANUARY 20240800 - Stage at Torres Mortuary, 1965 Potrero Grande Dr., Unit C, Monterey Park, CA.
https://maps.app.goo.gl/fxZoLEKUUPAiSZTb70820 - Mission briefing.
0830 - Flag line for dignified transfer of Hero to coach.
0845 - KSU to Riverside National Cemetery, 22495 Van Buren Blvd., Riverside, CA.
https://maps.app.goo.gl/c9FH47SXENoAb6xV8 NOTE: Possibility of leaving earlier due to traffic.
1000 - ETA Riverside National Cemetery.
1030 - KSU to assigned shelter for flag line and military honors.
CRAIG "JIP-C" LANE
SoCal PGR Ride Captain
bigredroadglide@yahoo.com
760-900-0388You 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.
