PART 2 The United States Army and the family of PFC Fred Ponce III have requested the Patriot Guard Riders to accompany their hero from the church to his final resting place. It will be our honor to fulfill their request.
PFC Fred Raymond Ponce III, affectionately known as Freddie, passed away on April 16, 2024 at the young age of 21. Born on October 11, 2002 at Santa Paula Memorial Hospital, he was the cherished and beloved first son of Jennie Rose Menjuga and Fred Ponce Jr. At the age of 2, Freddie was given the nickname “Tonka,” meaning “Buffalo” in the Native American language. Papa Ray said Freddie’s personality reminded him of the “Tatonka,” the great animal which gives completely of itself for others.
Freddie attended Fillmore Unified School District and graduated as a Sierra High School, Warriors, Class of 2020. After high school Freddie decided to follow in the footsteps of many family members by joining the military, the United States Army. Freddie earned the rank of Private First Class Ponce III and was assigned to Bravo Company (Beast), 65th Engineer Battalion (Bayonets), 25th Infantry Division at Schofield Barracks, Hawaii.
Freddie’s adventurous spirit was evident in his love for the outdoors. He loved his family trips to Convict Lake. Fishing, hiking, hunting, bbq’n and camping were just some of his favorite hobbies. Freddie loved all genres of music, often volunteering to DJ any get together and always hitting the dance floor. He loved driving his Papa Fred’s ‘64 Impala and cheering on his Raiders, Dodgers and Lakers.
Known for his quick wit, sarcastic humor and infectious smile, Freddie left a lasting impact on everyone he met. Freddie loved family time, hanging out with friends, holidays and especially his birthday! He always went big for his special day. Freddie loved being a brother, always trying to keep up with each of his seven siblings. He also cherished his friendships and considered many of them his brothers and sisters.
He married his high school love, Ayleen, and together they had their “fur babies” Jack, Honey & Whiskey. Freddie’s journey, though brief, has touched so many people and his legacy will live on in the hearts of those who knew him. The city of Fillmore mourns this bright, young soul. We thank him for his service to our Country. He will be deeply missed but never forgotten. His beautiful smile, handsome face, white tee with 501’s and Jordan’s is an image we will hold near and dear when we close our eyes and see Freddie. May he rest in power and peace and forever be our guardian angel.
Freddie is survived and deeply missed by his wife, Ayleen, and loving parents, Fred Ponce Jr, and Jennie Rose and Phil Monroe. He will also be missed by his sisters, Destiny, London, Peyton, and Dallas and his brothers Maxx, Joey, and Jayden. He also leaves behind his maternal and paternal grandparents, great-grandparents, and a close-knit family of aunts, uncles, cousins, and many friends.
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 church to the cemetery, approximately 12 miles. Please see the timetable if you would like to participate.
TIMETABLE FOR WEDNESDAY, 29 MAY 20240915 - Stage at San Salvador Mission (parking lot), 4041 Center Street, Piru, CA.
https://maps.app.goo.gl/TGc1aW7H18ihbQfFA0930 - Mission briefing.
1100 - Flag line and dignified transfer of hero from the church to the coach.
1115 - KSU to Bardsdale Cemetery, 1698 South Sespe Street, Fillmore, CA.
https://maps.app.goo.gl/FMD3ydy9qyGgQ6Xk6TOM BARRY
PGR California State Captain
casc@patriotguard.org
714-206-1227You 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.
