Ride Report posted for Redbeard

Terri , A Co-worker of our Heroes Mom, contacted the warriors watch and asked if there was anything we could do for a Military Hero coming back from IRAQ.  I have to say, in this world of questions and uncertainties, the one thing I do know is , YOU reached the right group if you want to have a HERO treated like a ROCK STAR and welcomed Home.

Our conversation over the next few days let me know that Terri was more then just the typical coworker. She was so concerned with the welcome home and wanting to keep it all a surprise for the family. She even set up the family transportation to and from the airport. So the plan was set.

I know a few Warriors Watch riders had other secondary rally points set before the Main Firebase69 meeting. But when we all did show up at the Firebase, it was apparent this Welcome Home was going to be another perfect event. Again the Fire Fighters at station 69 opened their doors and HEAT to us as we waited for everyone to meet. I can not thank them enough, they always have an open door and welcome for us.

We contacted the airport and was told the flight was a little early so we mounted up and made our way to the arrivals. AS we pulled in front of the International Terminal, we were met by Airport Police and a few dozen smiling faces getting out of a Stretch Limo. Yes it was the Riley Family and they were certainly surprised to see about 12 Motorcycles and 5 Vehicles all there for this Escort. We finally parked in the VIP Lot just off Terminal “A” and made our way inside. The USO had already taken the Family up to Wait for their Loved one. We decided to set our Flag Lineup at the base of the Escalator and Elevator, We had the Honor of THANKING a few Military Heroes that happened to be walking by us as we waited. It does always make me laugh when the look on their faces go from the blank stare, to utter surprise, to that GREAT BIG SMILE when they realize what’s happening. I guess a bunch of Leathered up Flag Carrying LOUD Cheering Biker types hurrying over to greet you has a LOOK to it that would make anyone a little nervous.

Finally our Hero made his way down to our line, Giving Him Honors, we came to attention and presented arms. Then in true Warriors Watch Fashion we attacked Him with Big Hugs, Pats on the back, and Cheers and clapping.
We all made our way to our vehicles and mounted up. This was a long Escort, by the time we reached our destination it was dark. We had traveled up 95, over the Walt Whitman Bridge and down 42 where ,at the Blackwood exit, we picked up our first of Local Police assistance. (Gloucester Township). They took us to the point where Winslow Township picked us up, then onto Waterford Township which is the area where Our Hero Lives. I have to say, The Efforts these Police departments went to for this Hero and our Escort was over and above. We crossed lines of townships seamlessly, I can not thank them enough and I know Our Hero also noticed this was a non-stop parade.
As we turned onto our Heroes Street, we could see the lights from the Fire Departments and EMS waiting at the House. We had approximately one half mile to go and it looked as if we where traveling in a tunnel with the sun shining and the biggest American Flag Flying at the End just waiting for us.  As always the Yellow Ribbon Club had the whole thing planned perfectly from the decorations and patriots waving the flags and cheering to where everyone would park as they pulled up, needless to say we parked the Bikes directly in front of the American flag, and that put the Limo  perfectly where the Majority of people where waiting.  Again when the Limo door opened up, it was a HERO MUGGING of Hugs, kisses and pats on the Back all set to the sounds of cheers and clapping. You just NEVER get tired of hearing or seeing that outpouring of Honor, gratitude and Respect. There was a MAGIC Coin presentation given by one very special young Patriot. Len’s Grandson “Danny” who has been on a few missions already with his Grandpop and from what I have seen of this young Patriot, will be making many many more missions.  Danny handed Our Hero that Magic coin with Respect and I couldn’t have been more proud of his actions and presentation.

This night held a second Mission that all of us knew we needed to do. We all had spoken about this in the past and this night was our chance. We had 3 Gold Stars Parents present at this Welcome Home celebration. So we quietly asked them to come with us to the front of the Flag. We gathered all the Escort together and surrounded these wonderful people. There was a heartfelt speech made to let them know that they are part of our family and to try and show them that we will never forget the Ultimate sacrifice that their child had made for the Country and our very freedom. We then presented each of them with a Magic coin from the Warriors Watch and gave them just a second or two to look at it. Then there was a yell from the back that said “GROUP HUG” and again, The Hard looking, leather covered, bikers and escorts MUGGED these Parents with hugs and words of gratitude.

Sometimes words can not express what dwells within the heart, But when your arms are wrapped tightly around someone and you softly whisper to them “Thank You” It all seems to fit so perfectly together.  We did not want to take away from Our Heroes Welcome Home, and I believe we didn’t…. It was more of an Enhancement to the night.
I can not thank you enough, those who came out to make this Escort and Welcome Home.. from the Local Police and Fire Departments to the Nam Knights M/C, Last Patrol M/C,  CCHog Riders, Gold Star Moms, The Yellow Ribbon Club and the Warriors Watch Riders.

Thank You for your service and dedication Cpl. Walter Riley Welcome Home.

PEACE
REDBEARD