Rolling Thunder Washington DC Rally
Reminding the world of the issue of Prisoners of War (POW) and those soldiers Missing in Action (MIA) is the purpose of the annual Memorial Day Rolling Thunder ride through Washington DC. Rolling Thunder is an annual event to keep the issue in the public awareness.
When the US was involved in North Vietnam in 1965, the non-stop bombing was known as “Operation Rolling Thunder. The rally is named from that sound.
In 1988, two veterans of the Vietnam War, Artie Muller and Ray Manzo, rallied together a group of fellow veterans, family members and veterans’ advocates to organize a demonstration during the Memorial Day weekend, to be held at the Capitol Building in Washington, DC. The group became known as Rolling Thunder and each year since has held an annual “Ride for Freedom” to the Vietnam Veterans Memorial Wall.
Initially focusing attention on those POWs and MIAs after Vietnam, it’s grown on a large scale. Rolling Thunder participants are often veterans, and many ride motorcycles, but all persons can participate.
This year we started with just under a half a million riders forming up in the Pentagon parking lot. It was an honor to ride in the Rolling Thunder Rally. We honor our nations missing heroes and shall never forget those that gave their all for freedom. Our participation symbolized our respect for all of the veterans of this country, living and deceased.
It is a stirring , emotional experience to display that proud patriotism while choking back a tear of remembrance.
The sound of a hundred thousand motorcycles starting up as the ride filled the air as the first groups of riders took to the streets of DC. It was very loud yet very subdued at the same time. Emotion filled the air.
The sun was shining and the rally route took us through downtown Washington. Supporters packed the streets and waved and flashed peace signs as we rode by. You could feel the common bond that untied us in this cause.
Riding to the Vietnam Vets Memorial was a serious event. We listened to those honoring the missing soldiers and noticed the thousands of Americans that supported us in our recognition. This public display of support for the missing and unaccounted heroes was moving.
This type of event remains with you for all of your life. It touches the young and old alike. A strong emotional day remembering the purpose of Rolling Thunder.
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