Ride with Pride
If you were unable to
make the ride on Sunday, September 23, 2001, in support of the recent tragedy at
the World Trade Center, then you really missed out on something that was very
meaningful to all of the participants.
Early Sunday morning,
the parking lot of Neidengard’s Cycle Center was empty except for a few bikes
and chapter members who volunteered to work during sign-up. In a short time,
the group grew to approximately 1,000 riders. Imagine a sea of bikes (all makes
and models), consuming every available parking space in the lot, along with
spillover to neighboring parking areas. Patriotism was proudly displayed in
practically every way possible: clothing, hats, scarves, helmets, bikes, and a
few faces.
The local VFW Post performed the raising of the flag and presented an eight-gun salute. All riders joined in the Pledge of Allegiance to our great nation’s flag and sang along with the song that has become an icon during this tragedy, “God Bless the USA.”
The 50-mile procession
began as local fire trucks and police cars led the riders through the town of
Wintersville. Leader bikes proudly carried our nation’s flag as the local
citizens showed support of our efforts by waving and shouting as we passed by.
A police cruiser with
sirens wailing escorted the riders through the backcountry. Our first stop was
the American Legion Post in Hopedale, OH, where we visited the Bikers Memorial.
We reached our destination, the Knights of Columbus Hall in Mingo Junction, OH, in the early afternoon. Refreshments were served and the knights held a ceremony consisting of prayer, presentation of the flag, lighting of candles, and singing of patriotic songs.
Over $20,000 in
donations was raised for the surviving families of the September 11 tragedy.
It’s extraordinary when something of this magnitude can bring all citizens of
our great nation together as one.
A closing thought:
In the words of John Lennon . . .
IMAGINE ALL THE PEOPLE LIVING LIFE IN PEACE . . .
A Big Thanks to each of you for your thoughtfulness and
support!
To view
pictures of this ride Please click
HERE! ! !
When looking at the pictures please give them time to
load.....it will be well worth it! ! !