Bikers Take Veterans Issues to Washington

New Jersey members of Rolling Thunder, Inc. are heading to Washington, D.C. this Memorial Day weekend to take part in the organization's 26th anniversary demonstration in support of POW/MIA and veterans issues.

Weekend highlights include:

• Friday, May 24
  • Candlelight vigil at the Vietnam Wall led by the Flame of Freedom which will escort Gold Star and Blue Star families to honor and remember those who gave their lives in service to their country, and those who are still missing or held prisoner - 8:30 p.m.
• Saturday, May 25
  • TAPS (Tragedy Assistance Program for Survivors) – visit with the children of fallen heroes - 11 a.m.
  • Saturday Program – Speakers and Musical Tribute at the stage in front of the Reflecting Pool facing the Lincoln Memorial from 11 a.m. – 4 p.m.  Gordon Painter, J.D. Micals and Ben Mason.
  • Harley-Davidson of Washington - 9407 Livingston Road, Fort Washington, MD - free barbeque 10 a.m. - 4 p.m.
  • U.S. Navy Memorial wreath presentation - 11 a.m.
  • Rolling Thunder Hospitality Room - Hyatt Regency, Crystal City - 8 p.m.
• Sunday, May 26
  • Rolling Thunder Demonstration - leaves Pentagon North Parking Lot at noon
  • Program of speakers and Musical Tribute to Veterans at the stage in front of the Reflecting Pool facing the Lincoln Memorial from 1:30 - 5 p.m.

The Rolling Thunder, Inc. Flame of Freedom also will be transported via motorcycle escort form Oklahoma to Washington, D.C., arriving May 24.

Representatives from the national chapter will depart on Friday, May 24, 2013 from the Molly Pitcher rest stop on the New Jersey Turnpike at 9:00 a.m. and will travel as a group to Washington.