*****RIDE REPORT – Atterbury Escort, October 1, 2006*****
Wow, what a day! Beautiful weather, lots of happy faces and a ride to remember. At the truck stop the Westside Posse, Kokomo Coalition and the Greenwood Gang met up and shared some laughs and hello’s, and introductions of some first timers, then it was off to Mann’s. With Sgt. Rock leading us down, the crew of 20+ arrived at Mann’s and others were already there. The ALR from West Lafayette, a rider from Dayton, Ohio (sorry I forgot your name), Blythe (from a welcome home mission) and a good friend of the SSgt that had contacted us. Some members fueled up and others made introductions, all and all lots of laughs and hugs. After an inspirational prayer by Butch, instructions were given with a disclaimer that they would more than likely change once we got inside the gates (and they did). Off to Atterbury, with Headhog and Hugo in the lead (what was I thinking!!!) and behind them 40+ bikes and riders. As usual several stepped up to be road guards on our way to the base (thanks) and when we arrived at the gate, we were waved right in. The site of 40 bikes with their flags waving was a little overwhelming for some of the members of the transportation company. Everyone got off and immediately were greeted by the members of the transportation unit, again thanking us for being there. Little do they know, it is our honor and privilege to be there and we wouldn’t miss the opportunity to shake their hands and thank them. A group photo with all of them was the highlight of the trip along with giving my Patriot Guard Armband to the commanding officer who promised to take a picture when they get there and send it back to us. I also have their email address to get the unit’s address so we can send some care packages later on.
As we got our new instructions, it was off we go with the buses in front, and us following, and the intent to take the lead once we got to the interstate. Well the best laid plans changed again, and we were instructed to go down an exit and pick them up on the interstate. Well it all sounded like no problem, but delays at the stoplight (again thanks to the road guards) made us a little behind them. Traveling at high speed with 40+ bikes is an adventure in itself. I kept thinking, maybe we are ahead of them, or they will just be over the next hill while viewing the speedometer at 80+. Finally at Whiteland, we overtook them and as we passed them to take the lead, they hung out the windows and waved, and gave us the thumbs up. Now we slowed down below Mach 1 and lead them to the airport. We took the turn off to the usual airport meeting place (Holiday Inn, Ramada, Radisson – whatever you call that place – I think I will rename it Patriot Place, LOL) since we can never get the right name. Everyone stopped at the Place and chatted and then headed to their destinations. I want to thank everyone for coming, assisting me as you know it takes a group effort to make these missions work, and all the wonderful attitudes that makes this an awesome experience. Hope this report finds everyone home safe. |