3 minute read
Gold Star Family Weekend
by: gary Steelman
he Weekend of 29 May
started off with sounds of Harleys rolling into Tilley’s HD in Statesville, NC. They were escorting the Ride of Pride Trucks into the parking lot. The Ride of Pride has become a tradition for those at Freightliner in Cleveland, NC. Every Memorial Day sponsored trucks are built to honor the service men and women of America’s Armed Forces. Memorial Day weekend these trucks come together to honor those who gave all in the defense of freedom. To honor veterans of all wars. This weekend was no different.
The Wall that Heals was set up and for any that do not know, The Wall that Heals is a reproduction of the Vietnam Veterans Memorial in DC. Many have visited the “Wall” and found some closure, knowing their loved ones are not forgotten. This memorial honors their sacrifice.
This weekend is a part of Rolling Thunder XXXIII Nationwide Ride for Freedom. The event was put together and organized by Perry Kessler, RTNC6 President.
Day one of two at Tilley’s, was dedicated to Gold Star Families, and Veterans. Testimonials from Gold Star families and the lighting of the torch of freedom ended the night. After a day of very warm sunshine, bikes, reuniting friends and food from the various venders, drawings and giveaways from the American Legion Post, the first day was a great success. Day 2, Sunday morning church service offered by First Biker Church of America, a Table ceremony by RT Chapter 6, and line up the bikes for the ride. Nearly three hundred bikes circled Tilley’s HD for the police escorted ride to the dedication ceremony of the Gold Star Families’ Memorial in Elkin, NC. The ride wandered through the backroads of Iredell into Yadkin and Surry counties and on to the Elkin City Park, Hwy 268 West, Elkin, NC.
There, the city seemed deserted but for a handful of citizens and law enforcement officers handling traffic for the procession. The city was clearly not deserted as it seemed thousands of people were already present in the park to honor the Gold Star Families. After several speeches and programs, the bands played, and Taps echoed throughout the silent park. The memorial was unveiled. Many of the Gold Star Family members strolled around the monument and took pictures.
Thanks must go out to Perry Kessler and Rolling Thunder Chapter 6 for doing an outstanding job organizing the event. Credit must also be given Tilley’s HD for hosting the event and to the vendor’s who keep the masses fed, TOBO’S barbeque, Wilson’s Weenie Wagon, and the many others who served. Perhaps this will also become a tradition? Thank you to all who have served in the name of Freedom.
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