ABOUT THE MISSION:

The family of Mr. James F. Bland, Jr. has requested Patriot Guard Rider participation in his military honors funeral services. Mr. Bland died Friday July 21, 2017.

Mr. Bland was born December 20, 1940 in Bradford, Rhode Island. He graduated from Stonington High School in Connecticut and in 1957, enlisted in the U.S. Navy. During his enlistment, he attained the rating of Gunner’s Mate (Missiles) Senior Chief Petty Officer (GMCS)(E-8) prior to retiring in 1981. For his Honorable service, he was awarded the Meritorious Unit Commendation, US Navy Good Conduct Medal w/1 Silver Star and 1 Bronze Star, National Defense Service Ribbon, Armed Forces Expeditionary Medal, Vietnam Service Medal, the Vietnam Campaign Medal w/device and two Navy Battle Efficiency (Battle "E") Awards.

After his retirement from the Navy, Mr. Bland retired to McDuffee Road and worked various jobs in the area. He was an active communicant of Our Lady of Fatima R.C. Church in Delanson. James also was a member of the VFW and the Charleston Fire Department and Rescue Squad. He enjoyed woodworking, photography and painting.

PRIMARY STAGING DETAILS: 27 Jul 2017

Primary Staging Time: 08:30 A.M.

Our Lady of Fatima R.C. Church
1757 Alexander Rd.

Delanson, New York - 12053

Ride Captain:

Mike Hogan
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Special Instructions:

Visitation is from 09:00 - 11:00 AM followed by escort to:

Gerald B.H. Solomon
Saratoga National Cemetery
200 Duell Road
Schuylerville, NY 12871

Interment scheduled for 2:00 PM

Flags & Water:

Flags Will NOT Be Provided, Please Bring Your Own.

If you have large bike flags, please bring them.

Water WILL NOT be provided, please bring your own.

STAGING #2 DETAILS: 27 Jul, 2017

Staging #2 Time: 1:30 P.M.

Gerald B.H. Solomon
Saratoga National Cemetery
200 Duell Road

Schuylerville, New York - 12871

Ride Captain:

Mike Hogan
This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it.

Special Instructions:

For those members staging directly at the cemetery, please do so quietly and be aware of any services in progress. Please do not congregate at the Visitors Center.

Flags & Water:

Flags Will NOT Be Provided, Please Bring Your Own.

Large Bike Flags will NOT be needed

Water WILL NOT be provided, please bring your own.

Submitted By: Ray Sestak
Position: Assistant State Captain