The family of Thomas (Tommy) Watson has invited the Patriot Guard Riders to participate in their hero’s final journey. We are honored to fulfill this request.
Our hero served in the Army 1965-69 and was honorably discharged as a SP5, E-5. During his enlistment, he served in Germany and traveled to several different countries as a troubleshooter working with Nike Missile Surface to Air Systems.
As a civilian, Tommy worked as a warehouseman and forklift operator for Safeway Stores in Northern California for 33 years before retiring. As a hobby, our hero loved and enjoyed restoring cars and buying every type of tool Harbor Freight had to offer. He enjoyed motoring to every part of California and being outside in the fresh air.
Our hero is survived by his bride of 45 years, Shirley Anne Watson (Ms. Anne), and children, Sheila, Lyz, Rhonda, Robin and Anthony. He will also be missed by 13 grandchildren and 6 great-grandchildren. Tommy had 9 siblings.
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 32 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 THURSDAY, 28 MARCH 20241115: Stage at Draper Mortuary, 811 N. Mountain, Ontario, CA.
https://maps.app.goo.gl/GiW3jN81G5jouMvk91130: Mission briefing and welcome family members.
1200: KSU to Riverside National Cemetery, 22495 Van Buren Blvd., Riverside, CA with possible safety escort from Ontario PD.
1300: ETA to RNC and move to staging lane.
1330: Shelter for honors and services.
Billy (BillyJean) Morgan
SoCal High Desert Ride Captain
US Army, Vietnam 69-70
949-939-7282You 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.
