Terry Longpre … Patriotism

Published on November 15, 2012 under Born To Ride

Patriotism

Thursday, November 1, I rode to Derby Lane Greyhound Track not to bet on the dogs but to take time to honor those who served in Vietnam and lost their lives doing so.

I met with men and women who either had served in Vietnam or had family members who had. Our mission for the day was to escort the Vietnam Traveling Memorial Wall over 42 miles of Pinellas County roads during which time we passed twelve schools where students were waiting for our arrival, waving, yelling with small American flags in hand.

Along our route, we passed folks who knew we were coming, maybe by reading the newspaper or just from the sound of 115 motorcycles involved in the escort.

For some, it was the first time they had been to anything that resembled the Vietnam Memorial, be it a ¾ size or the actual ‘Wall’ in DC.

The ‘Wall” was ultimately set up for viewing in Coachman Park by anyone who was interested or needed to free themselves of memories past.

This was the thirteenth time I have personally been involved in escorting one of these walls. Each time I find myself a little better off knowing that those whose names appear on the “Wall’ still are part of my life.

I have never been much on using the word hero, which seems to have been over used in the last 10-15 years. In place of hero I like to use the word ‘warrior’ which is whatever person who has served this county is, be they a desk jockey or a front line ‘door kicking’ Marine. They served to protect our freedoms and us.

Speaking of Warriors, I will be headed to the Navy SEAL Muster, which happens in Fort Pierce each year at the National Navy UDT- SEAL Museum. I am presently writing a column which is about a custom motorcycle builder, a very special motorcycle and a Navy SEAL Medic by the name of Marcus Luttrell who was awarded the Navy Cross for his participation in ‘Operation Redwing’ where 19 Americans were killed.

While I am writing about those who appreciate what the military does for us I want to mention one of my favorite local entertainment acts. The act is called ‘Jim and Tim’ in concert. The group is made of Jim Pierce, Tim Pritchard, Gary Pierce, and Roland Newman. They sing county, gospel and patriotic songs and they do it very well.

I have known Jim for many years and have enjoyed their music. They also give local young people a chance to participate in their concerts in hopes they will carry on the musical tradition.

The concerts are held on the first Saturday of each month at the Manatee United Methodist Church located at 315 15th Street E, Bradenton at 7 p.m. Mark your calendars for December, go and make a joyful noise unto the Lord with them.

If you would like to contact me, please do so at PGRTerry@gmail.com and remember, “It’s not about the war, it’s about the warriors.” God Bless America and those who serve in uniform.

Terry Longpre