Honor Mission
William H. Ryan
US Army
Vietnam Era Veteran
PGRNY Ride Captain
Multi-City, NY - 02/09-10/2025
Mission applies to the following Region(s):
Region 4, Region 5
About the Mission:
The family of William H. "Bill" Ryan has requested Patriot Guard Riders' participation in his military honors funeral services. Bill, 72, of Loudonville, passed away Monday morning after a long and courageous battle with cancer.
Born in Troy, NY, on November 6, 1952, Bill graduated from Lansingburgh High School in 1971. He entered the US Army during the Vietnam War on 10 August 1972 with a primary specialty of Infantryman (MOS 11B40). His active duty time included a tour of duty in Korea, but his most cherished memories were from his time spent as a proud member of the highly prestigious Company "D" of the 3rd Infantry Regiment, “Old Guard”, that faithfully served with honor at the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier at Arlington National Cemetery. He was honorably discharged on 12 August 1975 at the rank of Sergeant (E-5), and for his service, was awarded a Meritorious Unit Commendation, National Defense Service Medal, Armed Forces Expeditionary Medal and the Korea Defense Service Medal.
Following his military service, Bill operated his own contracting business, earned his realtor’s license and briefly worked for the U.S. Postal Service. Prior to retiring, he was employed by Muller Martini in New York City, as a mechanical engineer. Bill also was a treasured and highly regarded member of the Cannon Funeral Home support staff.
Bill’s love for his country and motorcycles led him to become a devoted Patriot Guard Riders member and Ride Captain who spent countless hours honoring fallen heroes and their families with unwavering commitment and respect. A true patriot, he was known for his loyalty, compassion, and veteran service, always riding and standing with pride in the PGR flag line. Bill leaves behind a legacy of service to our community and will be deeply missed by fellow riders and all who knew him. Bill was an amazing man that made many friends everywhere he went, touching so many lives. He will always be remembered for his sense of humor and kindness. He was a beacon of positivity up to the very end of his life. His optimistic attitude was an inspiration to everyone who knew him.
Portions of the above narrative are contained in Bill's obituary, available for viewing online by clicking here
Primary Staging Date and Staging Time:
02/09/2025 at 12:15pm
Staging Location:
Cannon Funeral Home
2020 Central Avenue
Colonie, NY 12205
Lead Ride Captain and Contact Info:
Ray Sestak
518-669-3358
Special Covid-19 Mission Guidelines:
Updated 15, May 2024
The CDC has changed its COVID-19 protocol recommendations for 2024, updating them to reflect the changing severity and transmission of the virus. Please click here for the latest information and continue to practice common sense distancing protocols while in enclosed locations.
Special Information:
Staging at the funeral home with a flag line for the arrival of family and guests. There will be a briefing beginning at 12:20 pm. Members will stand during the Visitation hours of 1:00 - 3:00 pm, including sentinels indoors who will rotate in 15 minute shifts, as necessary. Please dress accordingly for inside/outside duty.
Is there a Second Stage to this Mission?
yes
Second Staging Date and Staging Time:
02/10/2025 at 10:30am
Second Location:
Christ Our Light Church
1 Maria Drive
Loudonville, NY 12211
Second Lead Ride Captain and Contact Info:
Ray Sestak
518-669-3358
Second Stage - Special Information:
Staging at the church for the arrival of the funeral cortege. A Mass of Christian Burial is scheduled for 11:00 am, followed by escort to Saratoga National Cemetery for interment with military honors. In order to accommodate PGR members and family, please consider carpooling to the cemetery to keep the escort to a safe and manageable size.
Is there a Third Stage to this Mission?
yes
Third Staging Date and Staging Time:
02/10/2025 at 01:00pm
Third Location:
Saratoga National Cemetery
200 Duell Road
Schuylerville, NY 12871
Third Lead Ride Captain and Contact Info:
Ray Sestak
518-669-3358
Third Stage - Special Information:
Interment with military honors scheduled for 1:30 pm. Please stage quietly and in accordance with current guidelines. For those members that may be staging directly at the cemetery for the 1:00 service, please park such as to allow enough space closer to the shelter for those arriving in the procession.
Is there a Fourth Stage to this Mission?
no
Submitted by:
Ray Sestak
rs 02/05; MER
