My little town doesn’t have much. Nestled in the Appalachian Mountains of southwest Virginia, population 9000, our community has more gas stations than fancy restaurants, more farmland than developed parks. But people matter in this little town. Every day, but especially this week.
Have you heard of “Run For the Wall?” Every year, hundreds of men and woman ride their motorcycles from as far away as California to the Vietnam War Memorial in Washington D.C. to honor POWs, MIAs, and veterans from all wars. And every year, on the Thursday before Memorial Day, they stop right here, to get a few meals and a lot of love.
Children from our local elementary school crowd the park in the center of town to meet the riders, marvel at their bikes, and say “thank you.” Sweet, high pitched voices offer songs and tear provoking tributes. I don’t have any POWs or MIAs to pray for personally. My father came home safely from Vietnam and married my mother in 1968. My father-in-law also served, just after my husband was born, and fortunately returned. But I know many families aren’t so lucky. So I cry for them.
When the ceremonies finish, the kids sprint to the street to wave flags and watch the bikes roll out as they head north towards D.C. Although I’m always impressed by the sight of the bearded, road hardened bikers mingled with hundreds of children dressed in red, white and blue, today the sound struck me hard: roaring motorcycle engines, horn blasts, and chants of U S A! U S A! 
What does this have to do with being a word nerd? I’m realizing more and more that writing about the significant events of life gives them more meaning, more permanence. Writing this post has forced me to stop in my busy schedule to absorb the importance of what I witnessed this morning. And I hope it will inspire you to pause too.
At Run for the Wall, the people of my town remember, along with the riders, the sacrifice made for us. And most importantly, we are teaching our children to remember.
Travel safely, riders.
How will you commemorate Memorial Day? Do you have someone special to remember? Take time to find out more information about Run for the Wall. Thanks for stopping by!
Julia
I love your little town! So much character and a great sense of community. We passed a bunch of bikers on our way up I81 to West Point this weekend.
Seeing graduation at USMA was a great reminder of the dedication of so many fine patriots who serve our country. We are blessed.
Thanks, Julia
Thank you, Susan. I have to admit, your posts about West Point got me thinking, and I decided RFTW deserved a good post! Thanks for the inspiration!
This is a beautiful post about a beautiful tradition. Your pictures are amazing! I can only imagine the excitement and emotion as these riders pass through your town. Just lovely.
Thank you so much Muddy! It’s a big deal around here.