Ride Report posted for MarineDad

Today is a day I will never forget. Today was a beautiful day. The weather was warm and so was the reception that the Warrior’s Watch Riders received as we turned into Mason’s Mill Park for the 2010 Freedom Steps 5K Walk/Run. Our LEO escort started at UM High School with Lt Alex Levy leading the way with lights and siren. Kudos to the UM LEO! We pulled into the Park to cheers, clapping and camers clicking. As we dethroned our chariots, we were greeted by Veterans from VFW Post 3612. Was that mugs and hugs…for us…could our mission getting out? Channel 6 was there with support and support was what the day was all about. Support for our troops that are deployed. Walkers and runners gathered at the flag pole for opening ceremonies. State Rep Tom Murt honered 90 year old Army Vet Winfred Morris for his service during WWII. Then the Grand Gazeebo captivated the audience with a moving and inspirational speech. The Warrior’s Watch Riders formed a flag line on both sides of the starting line and the runners and walkers were off! While we waited for the 27 minutes, until the first runner crossed the finish line, we spread the word about our mission, ate some chow, and if you looked real close…you might catch a WWR coining a Vet. After Mr. Vaughn, a recruit in the Delayed Entry Program for the USMC, crossed the finish line, followed by the other 144 participants, we broke down our flag lines. Then it was off to the Pavillion for some refreshments and lunch. All of the Riders were ‘pinned’ by a member of the Air National Guard. Well, as I said goodbye to the Riders as they mounted up and left, my heart became heavy again, with the thoughts of my son who is deploying in 13 days to Afghanistan. This event is very important to my wife and I, and to see the support from WWR’s, A Hero’s Welcome and the community, was awesome, and will help put our minds at ease. Lets keep up the good work…our mission will happen. Ride On! MarineDad

Click here to watch Gazeebo speech