FORT EUSTIS, Va. –
More than 100 Service members, civilians and retirees participated in a Wounded Veterans Motorcycle Safety Ride at Fort Eustis, May 21. The U.S. Army Training and Doctrine Command coordinated the ride to show support for wounded veterans from the surrounding community. The riders began at TRADOC headquarters, drove through Williamsburg and ended at a Hampton Roads Harley Davison shop where the Virginia Wounded Warrior chapter greeted them.
U.S. Army Chaplain (Lt. Col.) Derek Briggs, TRADOC force structure training and mobilization chaplain and event co-organizer, felt the event timing was significant as Memorial Day was approaching.
"We wanted to give people who ride motorcycles the opportunity to get together," said Briggs. "Events like this can help bring people together; they can learn things from each other."
Before embarking on the ride, motorcycles were checked by riding coaches, who conducted safety checks and provided a safety briefing.
"Those of us who wear - or have worn - the uniform remember those who gave their all," said Lt. Gen. Kevin Mangum, TRADOC deputy commanding general and chief of staff. "That's what Memorial Day is all about."