Today Rolling Thunder embarks on their Ride through DC. In the photo above they are heading to the Pentagon, which is the starting point of their ride.
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Since Memorial Day 1988 the riders have been coming to Washington DC to provide awareness for the POW/MIA cause. Bikers and Veterans come together in one massive event. They celebrate a common thread of service and to show respect for those that were lost in wars past.
Retired Master Sargent Rob Wilkens stated:
“The main goal of Rolling Thunder is to recognize and to never forget the nation’s Prisoners of War (POW) and those Missing In Action (MIA) as well as their families,” Wilkins said. “They were asked to serve this country and many made the ultimate sacrifice in the defense of this country – we want to keep their memory alive."
“For many, the first time they experience Rolling Thunder, it’s an emotional experience for them," Wilkins said. "Seeing hundreds of thousands of bikers, hearing the roar of hundreds of thousands of bikes and seeing our beautiful flag, flying freely, is something to behold. It’s an amazing sight and swells your chest with pride."
Rolling Thunder derived it's name from a massive Air Bombing Campaign during the Vietnam War. When the Riders begin they all start their bikes in unison to create the massive 'rolling thunder' sound.
The ride, this year as in every year, begins at the Pentagon Parking lot, passes by Arlington Cemetary, then ends at the Korean and Vietnam War Memorials.
Wilkens also stated:
After a humble beginning with 25,000 riders, the event has since grown to gigantic proportions with 1.3 million spectators and riders attending on the 25th anniversary -- making it the largest single-day motorcycle event in the world.
By Melony DeFord
Asst National Director
Tea Party Command Center
h/t: Air Force Military