The 16th Engineer Brigade, Ohio National Guard, had spent a year in Iraq, in support of Operation Iraqi Freedom. Nov. 9th, 2006 they were finally on their way home, to see the loved ones they left behind. Parents, spouses, children, and friends were awaiting their return to Columbus but their morning started in Camp Atterbury, Indiana. They were faced with a long bus ride to get home to see their loved ones. One I’m sure they imagined would be a long boring ride with the excitement and anticipation of getting home fighting to slow the clock down. Little did they know what they would meet and see on the way…..
The GWRRA had initially set up a mission to escort these soldiers home, in honor of their service and specifically in honor of CMS Vic Riley, one of their own, who will soon be retiring after 42 years of honorable service to his nation. They voiced an invitation to the PGR to join in and bring this group of Heroes home in style. That set in motion two organizations joining ranks and acting as one, the way it should be.
A group of GWRRA riders went to Indiana and escorted the buses. I can imagine the soldiers thoughts…. Cool 10 bikes are going to lead us home. Then they pulled into the rest area just across the Ohio state line. A surprise was in store for them…..
Through the course of the morning a group of approximately 100 bikes had staged at the rest area. All riders full of pride anticipating the arrival of the “Official Party”. The Ohio State Patrol Motorcycle Unit sent three officers to provide escort. With everybody eyeing their watches…… the time was near.
The buses pulled in, smiles, cheers, horns; the celebration had begun. The group formed up, time to hit the highway for a 90 mile ride to the final destination.
The ride to Columbus was unbelievable. The Fire, Rescue and Police Departments that lined the overpasses. Specifically, I can remember the Departments from the cities of Lewisburg, Enon, Dublin…. Businesses that emptied there buildings along the route to wave and cheer…… Speedway, Caterpillar that displayed a HUGE flag and many others to numerous to name.
As we were passing the entrance ramp at London down the ramp rolls the Columbus Police Motor Department, probably 10-12 strong, providing my mind with comfort. The safety net that you guys provide is above reproach. Spot on, you guys get the job done, displaying class second to none throughout.
The procession pulled into the church, much anticipated by a huge crowd of anxious folks waiting to get their hands on their soldiers. In short order that is exactly what took place.
I truly believe these warriors had no idea that this is what they would come home to. To a nation that is grateful for their service. Honoring the sacrifice that is made to enlist in a volunteer force can not be taken lightly. They serve with integrity, dignity and honor. Today they realized that a grateful nation is where they call home. Today they came home….. tonight they are home…. For that there is a thankful nation.
To all that came out my thanks can never be enough. Your presence and participation in the mission of the PGR is the power of our service. My hat is off to all and it was my pleasure to ride with each and every one of you today.
To the guests of honor today….. Welcome Home my friends. Job Well Done….. you are what makes America great!!!!!!
God Bless…..
v/r,
Mark Lockhart
Ohio Ride Captain |