Friday October 18, 2013
Ssgt Frank G. Shipman - US Army / US Air Force, Korean War Veteran, Susanville, CA

The Patriot Guard Riders having been invited by the family of fallen US Army/US Air Force Veteran, Ssgt Frank G. Shipman, to stand and honor during his Interment service at the Diamond Crest Cemetery, Susanville, CA. 96130

On an sunny Fall day, 21 PGR members showed to present Honors for this true American Hero, where the PGR stood Honor Line at his Memorial Service.

Ssgt Frank G. Shipman served his country proudly with the US Army as a PFC from 01 Sept 1950 to 30 Jun 1952. Ssgt Frank G. Shipman served as a mortar man with the Hvy Mortar Company/160th Infantry in Korea. Ssgt Frank G. Shipman was awarded the following medals/citations from his service during the Korean War : Army Occupation Medal (Japan) –Korean Service Medal with Bronze Service Star – Combat Infantryman’s Badge – United Nations Service Medal

Upon completion of his US Army obligation, Ssgt Frank G. Shipman entered the US Air Force as a Communications Specialist until his retirement on 30 Apr 1971. After his retirement from the US Air Force, Ssgt Frank G. Shipman went to work for the State of California – Department of Corrections in Susanville, CA until his retirement from the State of California. During his time in Susanville, Ssgt Frank G. Shipman was heavily involved in Veterans Affairs becoming the Post Commander for both the local VFW and the American Legion, later becoming the District 19 Commander for the Veterans of Foreign Wars.

Five motors left Reno early this morning to participate in the service for fallen Korean War veteran Frank Shipman held in Susanville, CA. No sooner had we joined US 395 northbound than we had a 'tail gunner' closing in and joining up; he had left Silver Springs, NV EARLY this morning. We joined a dozen Nor Cal and Modoc PGR members for Ssgt Shipman's service.

Ssgt Frank G. Shipman was a proud US Army/ US Air Force Korean War Veteran. Because of his love of life, his sense of humor and his love for his family, he will be missed by many.

I would like to give a special thanks to Reno Nevada PGR Dean Shuff and his contingent and Alturas Ride Captain Skip Kelly and his wife who traveled to assist the Susanville PGR stand Honor Line with American Fags during this Mission. Also present with our Patriot Guard Riders we had a great representation of many groups on this Mission.
They include :
U. S. Army Honor Guard
Patriot Guard Riders
American Legion
Veterans of Foreign Wars
Marine Corps League

Lastly, but not the least, I am thankful to US Army/Air Force – Korean War Veteran, Ssgt Frank Shipman, an American Hero and last of a great generation, and his family. Your watch has been stood, your duty to protect this nation is complete, and you’ve earned the right to be called a true American Hero. Your service and sacrifice will not be forgotten.

Rest in peace... Your Mission is complete

RC– Rick “Taildragger” Schultz