The family of James E. O’Connell, 84, has invited the Patriot Guard Riders to attend the military honors of their loved one as he makes his final journey. It will be our privilege to do so.
James enlisted in the United States Army and served from 03 June 1957 to 30 March 1960. He served in Germany. He was honorably discharged at the rank of Sergeant (E-5).
After military life, James worked in swimming pool construction for several years before working for several governmental contractors: Fletcher Aviation, Leach Corporation, and Lockheed Martin. In his pastime, he liked to build and modify things and enjoyed woodworking.
James is survived by his wife, Loretta, 3 children, 9 grandchildren, and 14 great-grandchildren. Per his wife, he was the “last man standing” out of 7 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, this is a flag line only (FLO) mission at Riverside National Cemetery. For those who would like to participate, please see the timetable and we will meet you there.
NOTE: Temperatures will still be hot so please stay hydrated and eat something light to help during this hot-spell.TIMETABLE FOR THURSDAY, 12 SEPTEMBER 20241000 - Stage at Riverside National Cemetery, 22495 Van Buren Blvd Riverside, CA. (Lemay Blvd near the restrooms on the right).
https://maps.app.goo.gl/UAoAQTYkLzPAM6nn71015 - Mission briefing.
1030 - Await arrival of hero and family and KSU to assigned cortège.
1100 - KSU to assigned shelter for flag line and military honors.
Lillian Riddell
SoCalPGR Mission Ops & Ride Captain
lilygirl54@roadrunner.com
(909) 855-2623"Standing For Those Who Stood For Us"“Life isn’t about waiting for the storm to pass, it’s about learning to dance through the rain”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.
