NOTE: This mission includes flight times, which are subject to last minute changes. Please check this thread for any changes before leaving for this mission.The United States Marine Corps and the family of SSgt Jerry L. Betzold have requested the Patriot Guard Riders accompany their hero from the mortuary to Ontario International Airport to be brought home to his family. We are privileged to participate.
SSgt Betzold, a highly trained Marine, died from injuries sustained in a rollover accident in a high-mobility multi-purpose vehicle (HMMWV or “Humvee”) while instructing others during a training exercise. He was taken to the local hospital where he succumbed to his injuries a day later.
Betzold was described as an experienced infantry Marine among an elite group of Marines at the base who called themselves “coyotes.” He mentored, taught, and coached young Marines, working hard and long hours, especially during service-level training.
NOTE: This mission posting is to facilitate your voluntary participation in honoring this Marine. For those interested, and all PGR members are welcome, we will be accompanying the hero from the mortuary to the airport, approximately 71 miles. Please see the timetable if you would like to participate.
NOTE: This is a morning mission and temperatures may not be too extreme; however, please take caution to keep hydrated and eat something lite.
TIMETABLE FOR WEDNESDAY, 14 AUGUST 20240730: Stage at Rose Mortuaries & Cremation, 66424 Pierson Blvd, Desert Hot Springs, CA.
https://maps.app.goo.gl/CRJEWMM4J74eFKrN80800: Mission briefing.
0815: Flag line as hero is moved from the building to the coach.
0830: KSU to Ontario International Airport, American Airlines Cargo, 2300 E Airport Dr, Ontario, CA.
https://maps.app.goo.gl/P5cjSYYwSBd2UfGf81000: ETA to Ontario International Airport, American Airlines Cargo, Ontario, CA. Flag line as hero is moved from the coach to the building.
TOM BARRY
California PGR 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.
