WarBikes

Memorial Day in America is a day to honor and remember the values that so many have fought for in wars and conflicts over the centuries. Flags were waved, prayers were said, tears were shed, stories were shared. It’s a poignant moment to say “Thank you” to a Veteran.

FIFI Firing All 4 Engines

This Memorial day I was lucky enough to watch as the Commemorative Air Force ran up all four engines on “FiFi”, the B-29 Bomber. It’s been a few years since she’s seen the skies due to her age. Fortunately, as an airplane, new-er parts can replace those which failed, but she still maintains the integrity of what she was built for 60+ years ago.

I was lucky enough to witness the nearly 1,000 motorcycles that took to the highway from a Vietnam Memorial to a WWII Memorial several towns over. To see so many riders, many of them Veterans themselves, on the road as a way of recognizing those who’ve passed and those who serve, was an overwhelming feeling. The freedom to be on the road myself, on my own two wheels, feeling the wind rush around me… I am thankful.

Our histories tell our stories. Someone, somewhere in your life, was in a battle. The uncle who never talks about what he saw, but wears his unit patch with pride. The cousin who jokes about all the weapons he’s trained on, but you don’t hear from him for months. The grandfather who flew a B-24 in Italy, once down to two engines coming over the Alps, unsure he’d ever make it back, but so thankful he did. The friend who worked in the trauma units, repairing wounded soldiers, now who savors the quiet ease of a home-town doctor’s office. You yourself may have a story to share. Your experience, your thoughts, your actions.

It’s the day after now. We keep moving forward and try not to forget.