I have to say, this was by far and away, THE largest motorcycling event in which I have ever taken part! The eleventh annual West Coast Thunder! I was both humbled and honored to have been involved in such an emotionally charged experience.

Memorial Day 2010: It’s the day we gathered to celebrate all the brave men and women of our military, who have made the “Ultimate Sacrifice” in laying down their very lives for our country. I, along with somewhere between 5000 and 7000 (estimates have varied) other motorcyclists gathered together to demonstrate our collective American pride and to humbly recognize all the brave men and women of our military and their families.

The Lovely Jenny and I, along with my friends from the Southern Cruisers Riding Club (Mt. Baldy Chapter) rode together to the staging point. My estimate is we were among the first 25% of the day’s riders to have taken our spot in the parade line. Even then, it was an absolute sea of bikes! We registered, forgot to put our raffle tickets (for the 2010 Harley Bagger) in the pot, walked the line of motorcycles, “ooh’d” and “ahh’d” at all the cool rides. An 8 year old boy sang the National Anthem and a small group of riders wore shirts depicting a loved one; a young military man… in combat gear… deceased. We saw men and women in uniform representing all the branches of our armed forces. This was just the staging point!

The Ride: Shortly before 9:00 AM those in front of us geared up and fired up their engines. We did the same. At precisely 9:11 (moment of silence) the ride began, escorted by the local police and a military helicopter who guided the ride up to the Riverside National Cemetery. Some riders peeled off to visit the cemetery, others continued on the escorted ride to the event venue in Soboba, California. We missed the turn for the cemetery… continued on with the rest of the ride. It was my fault… I’m sorry.

Along the entire parade route, as we passed through residential areas of Riverside, people gathered on both sides of the street, waving flags, holding up signs, flashing the peace sign, cheering, as we rode by. Jenny and I high-fived a guy who had extended his arm to the passing motorcycles. The police closed off the streets, intersections, and freeway onramps along the entire route. From start to finish, the parade of bikes, several miles long, didn’t stop once. Awesome! And everywhere along the route were those dedicated folks cheering us as we rode by. I’m not at all ashamed to say I was humbled to tears.

The Event: The ride finished at a casino in Soboba (I never learned the name of the place but to be honest… it didn’t really matter) where the rest of the day occupied the stadium and surrounding area for venders, concerts, lots of food, beer! All the trimmings! I had neglected to stop for cash but managed to have a friend spot me $40.00. Thanks Jim!

Nearing the end of our day, guest speakers were brought out, each of whom spoke of their appreciation for our military, honor for those who served our country, honor for those families who lost someone in combat. They played the National Anthem, Amazing Grace (bagpipes), and after a tear pulling presentation from the Honor Guard and a moment of silence, a solitary bugler played Taps. If you ever want to see a few thousand big, burly bikers cry… attend this event next year.

Personally, I cannot think of a better way to celebrate Memorial Day than to have joined with others in honoring those who work so hard to preserve my freedom. Mere words are not enough to express my gratitude.

Related

• Click here is you want to see more photos from the day
• Videos from West Coast Thunder
• Fox11 West Coast Thunder Memorial Day Ride

Events, Motorcycles, News, Raves, Rides