Santa Barbara man participates as pallbearer for 41st President

A Santa Barbara family is bursting with pride.

The Gould family gets to watch their son, Kevin Joseph or “Joey,” participate as a pallbearer for George H.W. Bush, the 41st President.

Our reporter Tracy Lehr spoke with Joey’s dad, Kevin, and one of his younger brothers Tuesday.

The family was already proud that Joey is a member of the United States Coast Guard Ceremonial Honor Guard unit. They said this honor makes him a part of history.

The Goulds have been taking pictures of their television screen each time the late former President’s casket is carried. They shared lots of photos with Lehr, even some tweeted by the President.

It is easy to tell the San Marcos High School alumnus (Class of 2008) because he is the tallest (6’3″) in the unit. Relatives said becoming part of this elite group was something Joey always wanted to do.

“He is a kind-hearted, sweet guy,” said Kevin Gould, Joey’s father. “Every time I think about what he has accomplished I’m pretty speechless.”

Gould said he will take time off form work to watch him again on Wednesday. “I get choked up. It’s an unbelievable feeling for a father.”

Lehr also spoke to one of Joey’s younger brothers at Arizona State University. He said he plans to find a way to watch tomorrow when Joey will help carry the late President’s remains to Air Force One.

The national honor comes during a birthday week for Joey. He turns 29 on Pearl Harbor Day, Friday.