Honor Mission
John R. "JR" Altavena
US Navy
Vietnam Veteran
Livonia, NY - 04/05/2025
Mission applies to the following Region(s):
Region 1, Region 2
About the Mission:
The family of Vietnam War & Cold War veteran John R. "JR" Altavena has requested Patriot Guard Riders' participation in honoring his life and service. Mr. Altavena, of Geneseo, NY, passed away on 6 February 2025 after a courageous battle with cancer.
Quoting from the Kevin Dougherty Funeral Home obituary: "John Richard “JR” Altavena honorably served our Nation for almost 4 years on active duty in the US Navy from 1965 – 1969, including a total of 3 years of foreign & sea service. His Naval Rating was PH (Photographer), and he attained the rank of Petty Officer 2nd Class (E-5.)
John was a Vietnam War veteran, assigned to Anti-Submarine Warfare Squadron VS-29, Helicopter Squadron-2 (HS-2), Helicopter Combat Support Squadron-1 (HC-1) stationed aboard the USS Kearsarge (CVS-33), an Essex-class aircraft carrier. He served as a Helicopter Combat & Rescue crew member and as a Photographer.
John received his honorable discharge from active duty on 1 October 1969, and he earned the following awards: National Defense Service Medal; Armed Forces Expeditionary Medal (Korea); Vietnam Service Medal w/3 Service Stars (4 Awards); Vietnam Campaign Medal, and Cold War Service Commemorative Medal.
John went on to become a very active member and leader in the American Legion, including as Past Commander of Post #468 in Greece, NY. He was also a Past Vice Commander and Past Commander of the Monroe County American Legion, and served as a Convention Delegate and as a member on numerous State & National Committees."
A full obituary is available for viewing by clicking here
Primary Staging Date and Staging Time:
04/05/2025 at 11:00am
Staging Location:
St. Michaels Cemetery
4324 Shelly Road
Livonia, NY 14487
Click here for map
Lead Ride Captain and Contact Info:
Don Higgins, RC, Reg-1
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:
This is a graveside service only. There is no escort involved in this Mission. PGR will provide a respectful flag line for arrival of the honoree and his family and friends. The graveside service with military honors is scheduled for 12:00 PM.
Please be prepared with a clean 3x5 American or US Navy flag, and dress for the weather. Thank you for devoting your time to help honor the US Navy Vietnam War & Cold War service of John R. "JR" Altavena, and to support his loving family.
Is there a Second Stage to this Mission?
no
Submitted by:
Don Higgins, RC, Reg-1
rs 03/27; MER
