To see the bikes riding in a row a mile long down 109 was a sight to behold. There were road guards at every intersection keeping us all safe while on lookers waved the American flag and stood tall to show their support for our cause and say thank you for standing at the post to keep them safe.

 First stop was at the cemetery where this ride all began. We came to honor one of our own John “Cochise” Bosch and all the other souls that were laid to rest after their sacrifice to this country. We met a Gold Star Mom who had lost her son previously and was buried just feet away from John. We cried, we laughed, we prayed and we shared a toast to those who gave all. Our commander told the story of how this ride all began seven years ago with a handful of bikes to pay tribute to his brother John, a paratrooper who lost his life in an accident at work.   After that first ride we decided to pay respects and honor all Veterans who made the ultimate sacrifice for their country.

     On to the Tiki after that for a spirit or two and share memories of past rides and family we have lost. Now it was time for some twisties, as we call them and some countryside riding along long curving roads that allow you to feel like a kid out riding your bike for the first time and being completely free.

     Our day ended at Kellers for some much needed thirst quenching and food. We listened to the band Sugar Lime Blue while just being us, a group of riders with different backgrounds, experiences and stories to share and shoulders to lean on.

     I thank my brothers, sisters, novice riders and all who helped to make this day what we had hoped for………a day to say thank you to all who have gone before us and stood the watch, it’s our turn to stand at the gate, rest easy my Soldier, Sailor, Marine, Airman and Coastie. Semper Fi