Copper Veterans Participate in “Operation: Flags of our Fathers” Memorial Day Convoy

Copperopolis veterans, from three separate foreign wars: WWII, Korea and Vietnam, will be riding in a convoy of refurbished WWII jeeps on Memorial Day, honoring fallen heroes at four separate cemeteries and four American Legion Posts along the valley route.

Bill Skellenger (Korea) will be driving his restored WWII Restored 1945 Willys Jeep. Riding with Bill will be Al Gilbert (Vietnam) and Mel Ogg (WWII). And handling the radio communication will be Lynne Ernest. Roberto and Carmen Barajas will be driving their restored WWII military jeep.

The 75 mile convoy will begin in Lodi at the Cherokee Memorial Park, from there they will be honoring fallen military at San Joaquin Cemetery in Stockton, Parkview Cemetery in French Camp, Union Memorial Cemetery in Manteca, and finally Collegeville Cemetery just outside of Stockton. On their course they will visit American Legion Posts 22, 803, 249, and 16.

David LeBrecque, a 13 year Air Force veteran, member of the Military Vehicle Collectors of California (MVCC) and organizer of this event, said that their main purpose for the Memorial Day Logistics Movement is "to commemorate the sacrafices made by our service mena dn women, past and present, who have given their lives to protect the freedom of all Americans." The convoy will be an honoring presence, not only at each site visited, but along the convoy route, “sharing the experience (of patriotism) with people.” David’s brother (Navy veteran 11 years), his daughter (Air Force) and his niece will all be participating in this event; all dressed in period military clothing.

This is the first annual “Operation: Flags of our Fathers” Memorial Day convoy. If you are interested in participating next year please contact David at gpwdave@gmail.com.

Bill Skellenger's Willys