SHORT NOTICE HONOR MISSION
SFC Edwin Smelser, 73, US Army, Retired, of Harker Heights, TX
The family of Sergeant First Class Edwin Smelser has requested the presence of the Patriot Guard Riders at the Committal Service of their Loved One.
Edwin served twenty years as a mess sergeant cook in the United States Army. During his military career, SFC Smelser won numerous accolades and awards by being selected as the top dining facility for his major command. Edwin coached and mentored many future Army leaders, and his ability to train and teach Soldiers was second to none. Due to SFC Smelser’s many career highlights and proven track record, he was selected to serve his last four years at the Fort Devens Army Readiness Group, and was responsible for training of other leaders in all aspects of food service while in garrison and deployed. His last mission prior to retirement was to prepare many reserve units for their deployment in support of Desert Shield Desert Storm. Edwin Smelser’s awards include the Meritorious Service Medal with two oakleaf clusters, the Joint Service Commendation Medal, the Army Commendation Medal with three oakleaf clusters, and the Army Achievement Medal with four oakleaf clusters. His entire obituary may be found here: https://www.heritage-funeralhome.com/obituaries/Edwin-Barrington-Smelser?obId=35249962
Date: Fri, 14 Feb 25
Staging Time: 1005
Staging Location: The cul-de-sac between the Walk of Heroes and the Memorial Shelter at the Central Texas State Veterans Cemetery, 11463 SH 195, Killeen, TX 76542 (http://tinyurl.com/CenTexVetsCeme)
Setup & Briefing: Upon clearance and at the direction of the Ride Captain, we will move to the shelter, set up the flags, be briefed and await arrival of the procession.
WX: Mostly cloudy, with a high near 55. Calm wind becoming south southeast around 5 mph in the morning.
Notes:
1. Be at staging ON TIME.
2. Hydrate well prior, bring water for yourself and a buddy and dress with consideration of the weather conditions.
Please join us in honoring this Retired US Army Veteran for his selfless service to our Great Nation.
We don’t care what you ride or if you ride, what your political views are, or whether you’re a hawk or a dove. It is not a requirement that you be a veteran. It doesn’t matter where you’re from or what your income is; you don’t even have to ride. The only prerequisite is Respect.
