Rolling Thunder is an annual motorcycle rally that is held in Washington, DC during the Memorial Day weekend to call for the government's recognition and protection of Prisoners of War (POWs) and those Missing in Action (MIAs). Rolling Thunder's major mission is to publicize the POW-MIA issue.
The name Rolling Thunder is derived from the constant bombing of North Vietnam in 1965 that was given the name, "Operation Rolling Thunder.
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.
The Rolling Thunder Motorcycle Rally started as a way to focus attention on those unaccounted for after Vietnam, but it's become much, much more. While many members of Rolling Thunder are veterans, and many ride motorcycles, neither qualification is a prerequisite to participate.
We had the privilege of riding in the 2008 s Rolling Thunder Parade. We joined over 400,000 other riders in honoring our nations brave service men and women. We will never forget our veterans who have given so much for our freedom. We all rode as a reminder of the sacrifice of the veterans who now serve, those who returned from war and those who did not.
This was an overwhelming experience. The proud patriotism and all too painful memories caused many choked back tears and swelling hearts.
The sound of a hundred thousand motorcycles starting up as the ride filled the air as the first groups of riders took to the streets of DC. It was very loud yet very subdued at the same time. Emotion filled the air.
The sun was shining and the rally route took us through downtown Washington. Supporters packed the streets and waved and flashed peace signs as we rode by. You could feel the common bond that untied us in this cause.
In solemn tribute the procession finally reached the Vietnam Veterans Memorial where speakers remembered their absent patriots. Thousands of Americans came out to give very public thanks for the sacrifices of veterans like these, as well as those not yet accounted for.
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.
About the Author:
Eddie Kirchen writes for Choppernutz.com Choppernutz features motorcycle articles and photos- a motorcycle website featuring choppers, bikes and babes. Visit the Uber Article Directory to get a totally unique version of this article for reprint.
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