So, I and my buddy Bill are riding down to Rolling Thunder this year. I never have been there for it, and wanted to do it as it is the last year for the big run. I understand there will be localized runs from 2020 on out. Anyone else planning on attending?

 

Yep, My mission begins in SeaTac, escorting the Alaska Airlines" Phoenix " Fallen Soldier Cart down to Ontario California to join with RFTW. My mission ends with Rolling Thunder where I will escort a Gold Star Mother.

 

For me, it's the start of my riding season. I've gone 8-times prior. It always depends on work that weekend. I already have rooms booked in Gaithesrburg, but work may have me leaving from Baltimore.
If you have not booked rooms, better do it today.
My advice is get there early, like 7:30-8:30 a.m. or you'll be late rolling outta the parking lots mid to late afternoon, if you plan on participating in the protest ride. That's right, this is a protest ride, not a bike rally.
Bring something to drink. There is water, food and cooling stations in the parking lots. If you get there early, after taking in the sights of the parking lots, walk across the Memorial Bridge to the mounments, (Lincoln Memorial, Vietnam Wall, ect.) and Thunder Ally vendor areas. I've learned that lesson rather than baking in the lots all day. As I'm walking back, I actually see the start of the protest run come across the Memorial Bridge.

And be very careful with traffic in Washington. Even though it's a holiday weekend, I've seen too many bike crashes. Wether it's car-bike or bike-bike, be careful!

But it's an amazing experience and the sights you will see will leave life-long impressions. Here is one of the most moving:



https://thesalutingmarine.com

 

Sgt. Chambers came by our dealership and stayed for a few hours the day after Rolling Thunder and I got to talk to him for a bit. What a humble and true gentleman he is.Not sure at this point if he's coming this year or not but, I'll see if I can find out and let everyone know. Rolling Thunder itself is really inspirational. If you haven't been, I highly recommend it.

 

I make it every year.Getting there has made for some memorable rides from wherever I was living. The last few years have been from Florida. If you have never been, be advised: once you pull onto the Pentagon parking lot...you aren’t getting out until it’s time for your row to roll out.
It’s quite an experience.

 

If you are an American Legion member, sign up for the American Legion Run To The Thunder. http://www.alrrollingthunder.com/

I'm Road Captain for Post 177 that hosts the legion riders.

 

I went in 2017. What an experience. I would like to go again this year but work got in the way. Take note to what others have mentioned about bringing plenty of water and getting there early. The ride lasts minutes, the memories last forever.

 

I heard this is the last year for the ride so I would get it in if you wanted to experience it. The site indicates they cannot confirm it but all news I heard out there says this is it. Does anyone have any recent info?

https://www.militarytimes.com/news/2...cost-concerns/

 

I’ve only missed two years out of the last 10. Last year the head/bike count was off in my opinion. This year however will probably be one of the largest attendance numbers yet.

Our RT chapter had our meeting yesterday. The hotel we book is already asking for blocked rooms to be released if we do not need them. They have many request. Get your room booked!

I also understand we will be selling a unique Challenge Coin in the parking lot this year along with the patches marking the final year.

Ride safe and enjoy

 

Thanks for the info and link. I'm a ALR Post 1977 out of New Lenox, IL and will see if I can get any members to go and be part of your ride. I may send you private email should I have questions.

Ratman