Patriot Guard Riders

Please note that due to ongoing OPSEC concerns, mission details are not shown in this posting. All specific details and updates have been sent to members directly via their e-mail address on file.

The family of Edward J. Beaupre has requested the participation of the Patriot Guard Riders in his funeral services. Another of our “Greatest Generation” has passed on.

WHEN / WHERE:
Thursday, August 4, 2016
Schenectady, NY

Staging and flag line at the church NLT 11:15 AM for the arrival of the family.

LRC:
Ray Sestak
rayspgrny@gmail.com

At the conclusion of the church services and dignified transfer, members will escort the funeral procession past Edward’s residence, then on to the cemetery. Members will re-form the flag line at the cemetery for the dignified transfer and interment services.

ABOUT THE MISSION:
Edward answered his country’s call to service in World War II by enlisting in the United States Army Air Force in February, 1943. He was assigned to the 500^th Bombardment Group, 883^rd Bomb Squadron, Saipan, Mariana Islands. The 883^rd has a storied history, and was the first B-29 group to conduct bombing raids against mainland Japan from the Mariana’s. Edward attained the rank of Private First Class (E3), and was Honorably discharged on November 11, 1945. For his service, he was awarded the WWII Victory Medal, Asiatic Pacific Campaign Medal and Good Conduct Medal. He was assigned to the 883^rd during the period when the Squadron received two Distinguished Unit Citations.

After his discharge, Edward continued to distinguish himself by becoming the first ambulance driver for the City of Schenectady, delivering 8 babies over his 25 years of service there. He worked as a Fleet Manager for Pacific Molasses and was one of the longest-serving ushers at St. Gabriel’s Church. Edward loved his country dearly and was a life member of the American Legion and a true champion and supporter of military veteran causes.

The Patriot Guard Riders are proud to be able to stand in honor of the life and service of PFC Edward J. Beaupre.