So that POWs and MIAs are never forgotten, Rolling Thunder organizes an annual parade ride through the streets of Washington DC. Garnering publicity so that POWs and MIAs are never forgotten is the result of each annual ride.
“Operation Rolling Thunder was the name given to a campaign of constant bombing of North Vietnam in the mid sixties . Rolling Thunder is derived from that name.
The annual Memorial Day Weekend “Freedom Ride” now starts at the Pentagon and progresses through the Capitol to the Vietnam Veterans Memorial Wall. This rally began in 1988 when Artie Muller and Ray Manzo organized a demonstration consisting of a group of fellow veterans, family members and veterans’ advocates.
Initially focusing attention on those POWs and MIAs after Vietnam, it’s grown on a large scale. Rolling Thunder participants are often veterans, and many ride motorcycles, but all persons can participate.
This year we started with just under a half a million riders forming up in the Pentagon parking lot. It was an honor to ride in the Rolling Thunder Rally. We honor our nations missing heroes and shall never forget those that gave their all for freedom. Our participation symbolized our respect for all of the veterans of this country, living and deceased.
It is a stirring , emotional experience to display that proud patriotism while choking back a tear of remembrance.
As we listened to the rumble of starting motorcycles, swell and roll over us, we all took our turn starting up and heading out in double file. The strength of our emotions caused us all to be very quiet. There was no party atmosphere in this parade.
We rode the parade route waving back at the crowd lining the streets of Washington. Peace Signs were flashed and returned and signs of support were visible along the entire route. The sun warmed us as we shared a common feeling of awe and respect.
Riding to the Vietnam Vets Memorial was a serious event. We listened to those honoring the missing soldiers and noticed the thousands of Americans that supported us in our recognition. This public display of support for the missing and unaccounted heroes was moving.
This type of event remains with you for all of your life. It touches the young and old alike. A strong emotional day remembering the purpose of Rolling Thunder.
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Tags: Motorcycles, veteran, pow, washington dc
