9/11 Patriot Ride

[Netnorske]

I'm sure these rides took place all over the US today (9/11/11), the tenth anniversary of the tragic terrorist attacks upon our country, but Tricia and I were fortunate enough to take part in a ride here in the Everett area that included 300 riders on 250 bikes! It was truly an awe-inspiring experience.

I with to apologize to my fellow NW Region members for not posting this ride sooner, but I only found out about it one day prior myself. It started out at Sound Harley in Marysville and was sponsored by the Puget Sound Chapter of the Harley Owners Group. While it was 90% HD's, there were several other brands in the bunch and not a wimper was heard about metric bikes. I wore my KawaNOW colors proudly and was honored to be the lone member there to support the cause. I saw a Voyager and another Nomad (and several other Vulcans)...both of whom received a KawaNOW business card!

I have to say, this was one of the most well organized rides I have ever been on. We covered 60 miles through numerous small towns and at every major intersection, there were Police, Sheriff, Fire Dept. personnel, or Road Captains to block the way for our very long group.

Almost every bike was adorned in some way with US Flags and yellow ribbons to signify the ride purpose, but I think everyone knew anyways. What was truly humbling was how nearly all oncoming traffic we passed pulled over, waved and honked as we paraded by. Each small town had members of their Fire Departments and their equipment lining the streets and saluting our passing. People working in their yards would stop what they were doing and wave as well.

It was all enough to choke a guy up and at times I could feel my eyes getting misty. Someone told me yesterday if it didn't....something was wrong with you....so I guess I am okay... .

Here are some photos from the days ride, which included a stop at the Clearview Fire Station for a Flag Lowering Ceremony. In the photos, keep in mind there were four times as many bikes behind us as there were in front, as we were in the forward part of the group! God Bless the victims, the hero's who lost their lives saving others and the surviving family members who must forever endure the sadness of it all.

Lastly....Never Forget!

http://s374.photobucket.com/albums/o...view=slideshow

[AlabamaNomadRider]

A ride for a great cause. Great pictures. Wow, that was a lot of bikes. Thanks for posting Kris. I salute you and all the other riders.

[ringadingh]

It sure did draw a large crowd, nice to see so many supporting the cause.

[dabull]

Very nice. I always love to see the turn outs and the RW&B....thanks for sharing

[cactusjack]

It warms my heart to see all those Harleys! Nice photos, Kris!

[usranger74]

Looks like a nice time by all.