Washington---With the rev of motorcycle engines, the ground rumbles underfoot, and they're off: hundreds of thousands of military veterans ride out for the annual Rolling Thunder memorial rally in the US capital Sunday.
For the one million spectators and bikers -- many from out of state -- it is more than just an excuse to slap on a leather vest and polish their wheels.
It's a chance to remember the fallen, raise a call to bring soldiers missing in action back home and boost support for veterans.
"It's just an honor to come here with all these veterans who've served and just remember those who have given their lives and made this country what it is today," said Chuck White, sitting next to his shiny black Harley-Davidson.
"It's not just a bunch of guys getting together with their motorcycles, there's more to it, there's a lot of meaning," he said at this year's ride, which attracted some 750,000 bikes to Washington.
White, an air force veteran who spent time in Korea and Germany, rides the 38 miles (61 kilometers) from Baltimore every year for the parade and to visit his father's grave, another veteran.
"It brings a tear to your eye, especially when you talk to some of the other guys that are here," he said, referring to those who lost friends and family on the battlefield.
The ride, held on Memorial Day weekend, is also a chance to send a message to the government about increasing support for the estimated 20 million American veterans.
"I would like to see more support for the disabled vets, you know there's a lot of veterans out there who have disabilities we can't see -- post-traumatic stress syndrome -- and I just don't think we do enough for them, we really don't," White said.
The route has been the same since Rolling Thunder started in 1987: the bikers start at the Pentagon and tour around the National Mall, home to dozens of monuments, including war memorials honoring vets who fought in Korea, Vietnam and the world wars.
AFP
