Run For the Wall" riders from as far away as California and Texas will again join fellow riders on Sunday, May 29th for the Rolling Thunder XXIV Ride Through Washington.. an event that draws more than 300,000 to the streets of DC.
Rolling Thunder -- the largest annual event in Washington D.C. -- is a First Amendment demonstration run that takes place during Memorial Day weekend for POW/MIA awareness. Here are some of the activities planned for the weekend.
Friday, May 27th - 9pm Candlelight Vigil at the Vietnam Veterans Memorial
Saturday, May 28th - 9am Thunder Alley opens at 22nd St & Constitution Ave
11 am - US Navy Memorial Wreath Laying, Navy Plaza, 701 Pennsylvania Ave., NW
11 am - 3 pm - Saluting our Troops...speakers/musical tributes located on state between Reflecting Pool and Lincoln Memorial.
Sunday, May 29th - 7 am - Reveille - bikers rally in North Pentagon Parking lot.
12 noon - Rolling Thunder XXIV starts...bikers depart the North Pentagon parking lot.
1:30 pm - Rolling Thunder Speaker Program - speakers on stage between Reflecting Pool and Lincoln Memorial.
Memorial Day, May 30 - 3 pm drawing for Rolling Thunder XXIV Raffle Bike 2011
at Thunder Alley, 22nd & Constitution Ave. NW. (Tickets 3@ $10 available at event)
This year, there is also a free 4-day event, "Stars, Stripes & Spokes" at RFK stadium, two miles east of the Capitol.
"We ride for those who can't" is the motto of the organization, Run For The Wall.
RUN FOR THE WALL
By: Jennifer Jensen Walker
Thunder in the streets,
Tears in the eye,
As our love and honor
...Go to the ones that die.
We remember them,
We always hold them dear,
As they serve their country
Through their blood and fear.
Some families still wonder
Where their brothers may be hid,
But all we can do is honor them
For the service that they did.
So raise the flag up high!
Keep it ever from the dirt!
Help the soldiers in your life to see
We never want them hurt!
POW ... MIA ...
We pray that hearts will mend!
We cry for you, we ride for you,
Our vigil will not end!
Run for the wall!