‘It’s all about the patriotism’

Yes, it is brothers and sisters. Yes, it is. My son is stationed at Ft. Lewis, where this benefit ride was held. Thank you, Freedom Riders!

‘It’s all about the patriotism’

First it was a distant buzz. Then a rumble.

And finally, when all 168 motorcycles rolled through Yelm, the roar of two-wheeled Harleys, Suzukis and Hondas was so loud it turned heads at the gas station, and prompted the curious to peer out their windows.

Called the Freedom Ride, Sunday’s motorcycle tour through Pierce and north Thurston counties was a benefit for the soldiers and family members of the Fort Lewis-based 1st Special Forces Group.

Bikers paid an entry fee and could buy raffle tickets, food and T-shirts to support the cause at Northwest Harley-Davidson in Lacey – the start and finish point for the ride.

The crowd of leather-clad men and women gathered at 11:30 a.m. for a quick safety reminder, prayer and thanks from the commander of the Special Forces Group.

“You being out here today speaks volumes not only of your love of the road, but of your country,” said Col. Rick Thomas.

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