Ride Report posted for The Stalker

What an emotional day it was.

The morning began clouds and rain. The WI state coordinator and and an Illinois member were waiting for the two buses full of Guardsman at a rest stop.

After thanking the soldiers and the bus drivers they were enroute to the next stop in Rockford where the Illinois state coordinator and several members were waiting.

Enroute to Rockford, Illinois state police picked up the escort. When the buses arrived in Rockford, the soldiers stepped off the bus to stretch their legs and take a quick break.

It was the perfect opportunity to thank all of the soldiers. At this time we also presented each soldier with a set of honor beads and explained their meaning.

Hugs and handshakes and we were back on the road.

We passed so many well wishers along the way, people on the side of the road waving flags, people saluting as the buses went past, it was an emotional sight.

Other bikes and cars joined in the escort along the way. As we entered Sycamore, the streets were lined with hundreds of well wishers waving flags, holding signs and cheering.

The buses, actually pulled over and the unit walked through the town to the Armory. This allowed all of the well wishers an opportunity to see these heroes and thank them as they walked past.

We arrived at the Armory and attended the ceremony. One more cheer for the soldiers and we slipped out the door on to our next mission.

Thank you to the bus drivers, a retired Marine, and a former Army Sgt. Thank you to Illinois state police, you guys rock!. Thank you to the riders that braved our crazy rain, no rain, rain. Thank you to the hundreds of people lining the streets. Thank you Sycamore Armory for allowing us to escort you home, it was a true honor. And last but not least a special thank you to Staff Sgt. Kevin D. Grieco who did not return home with his unit today, as he made the ultimate sacrifice October 27, 2008. You are not forgotten sir, you were very much remembered today!