CONFIRMED: Howard Carnahan, Retired, Veteran, US Air Force (202-25) 23 Oct 25
1254 N Business Interstate Hwy 35
New Braunfels, TX 78130
USA
US AIR FORCE RETIRED VETERAN
The family of Mr. Howard Carnahan, a US Air Force (Ret.) Veteran, requests the presence and participation of the San Antonio Patriot Guard at the LEO supported procession, and graveside rendering of military honors of their loved one. We are honored to accept this invitation.
Howard Eugene (Gene) Carnahan, age 74, of New Braunfels, Texas, passed away peacefully on October 8, 2025, following a lengthy illness, embraced by the love of his family.
Gene was born in Mobile, Alabama in 1951. His family later settled in Alexandria, Louisiana, where he graduated from Bolton High School. It was here that he met the love of his life, Charlotte Maxwell, and their bond blossomed into a devoted marriage of 55 years.
Gene proudly served his country in the United States Air Force for 22 years, retiring as a Senior Master Sergeant (SMSgt) in 1995. His distinguished career took him across the globe, working on top-secret missions and culminating in his selection as one of only three security personnel in the On-Site Inspection Agency, escorting Russian dignitaries during missile silo inspections. His service earned him numerous honors, including the Joint Service Meritorious Medal of the INF Treaty, NCO of the Year, Air and Space Commendation Medal, Defense Meritorious Service Medal, and the Marksman Medal.
After retiring from the Air Force, Gene continued his commitment to public service. He served as a Deputy Constable and Airport Police Officer in San Antonio, taught Air Force JROTC at Hialeah High School in Florida, and spent 11 years as a Homeland Security instructor in Artesia, New Mexico. He retired in New Braunfels, Texas to be near his children and grandchildren.
Gene was a man of many passions. He enjoyed slow-pitch softball, hunting elk, oryx, and deer in New Mexico and on the family farm in Liberty, Mississippi. He was also an avid Harley-Davidson rider, sharing countless adventures with Charlotte and his riding companions. Known for his “tall tales,” warm sincerity, and infectious laughter, Gene was a cherished friend to many.
He is survived by his loving wife Charlotte; sons Charles Robert Carnahan and David Lee Carnahan (Andrea); brother Bruce Carnahan (Janet); sister Emily Carnahan Perry; nephew Chase Carnahan (Angel); grandchildren Isaiah, Camryn, Makenzie, Jonah, and Emilee and sisters-in-law Elsie Maxwell Rosenthal (Don) and Bettye Maxwell Benten (Chris). He was preceded in death by his parents, Georgia and George Carnahan.
Gene’s legacy lives on in the hearts of his family, friends, and all who had the honor of knowing him. His spirit will continue to inspire and uplift us.
The family extends heartfelt gratitude to the doctors and staff at Brooke Army Medical Center who cared for his body and spirit throughout his fight.
WEATHER: Hi 87 / Lo 64, 12 % Chance of Rain, 87 % Humidity, Wind: 6 mph S
REQUESTOR: Katie Bullock, Family SPOX
STAGING: 11:15 am, Thursday, October 23, 2025
Lux Funeral Home
1254 N Business IH 35
New Braunfels, Texas 78130
https://goo.gl/maps/rJtdHmNJK7f4N2ta9
BRIEFING: 11:30 am
HONOR LINE: 12:00 pm
**THIS IS A MOTORCYCLE ESCORT ONLY. NO CAGES PLEASE
KSU: 12:15 pm (Semper Gumby)
**THE CAGES WILL MEET AT THE SHELTER IN FORT SAM HOUSTON NATIONAL CEMETERY
INTERMENT: 1:30 pm – Shelter #3 (Call to Verify)
Fort Sam Houston National Cemetery
1520 Harry Wurzbach Road
San Antonio, Texas 78209
https://goo.gl/maps/kQ68VALuUAptXpgS9
RC: Pete “Sea Dog” Johnson
pfjohn127@gmail.com
FC: Alice “Cake Lady” Wagener
hwagener@sbcglobal.net
ADDITIONAL INSTRUCTIONS
1. Iron horses if you can, cages are always welcome and appreciated and unless under special circumstances not allowed in processions. You do not have to have a motorcycle to participate in honoring our veterans.
2. Safety First: Please remember to properly hydrate (including the night before) before any outdoor activity and to dress appropriately. Do not hesitate to take a break at any time if you feel you need to get in the shade or get indoors and always ask for help at any time. Also please do not forget your sun screen.
3. Please remember that our mission is to stand tall and silent, and with honor and. NO TALKING, SMOKING, CHEWING OF TOBACCO PRODUCTS, OR CELL PHONE USE IN THE FLAG LINE!
***Safety Notice***
Before volunteering and/or attending any San Antonio Patriot Guard Riders missions we encourage you to review all safety information below. Included are some potential safety concerns to be aware of, however this does not include the full scope of all potential hazards. Anyone attending any San Antonio Patriot Guard Riders mission understands that they do so at their own risk. Neither the Patriot Guard Riders Organization nor its representatives are liable for any damages incurred on any PGR mission or event.
Funeral Processions/Escorts
EVERY RIDER IS SOLELY RESPONSIBLE for their own safety at all times while riding in a funeral procession.
At NO TIME are any riders authorized to block any intersection or otherwise block or impede traffic laws in any way. Only Law Enforcement officials are authorized to block and/or impeded the lawful flow of traffic.
If you choose to fly a Flag on your bike you are SOLELY RESPONSIBLE for ensuring it is secured and not a danger to any other rider or traffic.
Warm Regards,
Bob “Pizza Man” Johnson
Asst. State Captain
Deputy State Captain
San Antonio Patriot Guard
Dignity, Honor, Respect
Cell: 562-413-2223
“We can’t all be heroes. Some of us get to stand on the curb and clap as they go by.”
Will Rogers