Memorial Day Ride of the Patriots

I just got back from an emotional ceremony in the parking lot of Patriot Harley Davidson in Fairfax Virginia.  Every year motorcyclists gather at Patriot for the annual Ride of the Patriots from Fairfax to the Pentagon where the Fairfax Harley Davidson chapter meets up with the rest of the riders for Rolling Thunder.

The stage had dignitaries and veterans to remind the crowd about the significance of Memorial Day, and to remember those that have given their lives for our freedom.

Long line of Fairfax County Police Motorcycles that would lead the ride to block traffic.

The Color Guard.

After the Mayor and State Delegate and State Senator spoke, Congressman Tom Davis gave some remarks about the patriotism of veterans.

Congressman Tom Davis

Next up was Vice Admiral Robert Papp Jr., the chief of Staff of the US Coast Guard, and described by the Grand Marshall as the “Saltiest S.O.B. in all of the Coast Guard.  Admiral Papp spoke about how honored he was to attend, and spoke about his feelings when he meets wounded  veterans.  And on seeing a crowd of over 3000 motorcyclists and their families out to remember the fallen and to support the troops, he said it was “priceless.”

Vice Admiral and Coast Guard Chief of Staff Robert Papp Jr.

The keynote speaker was a swarthy Marine Sargeant Ryan Sean Kennedy.  He had just returned from Iraq, proud to serve with his platoon that lost 8 KIA and 100 wounded.  He spoke about the clear progress we were making over in Iraq and was happy to serve, and proud to ride with the Patriots.

Sgt. Kennedy gives his remarks.

The Bagpipe band played Amazing Grace and there wasn’t a dry eye around.  Click the video below to hear them play God Bless America. 

Then it was time to ride.  How long does it take for 3000 motorcycles to pass?  About 45 minutes!  This line of bikes stretched to the horizon.

The Ride of the Patriots 

Happy Memorial Day!