Honoring Veterans: Barksdale motorcycle enthusiasts ride in their honor

  • Published
  • By Tech. Sgt. Sherri Savant
  • 917th Wing Public Affairs
Barksdale AFB, La. --  The rumble of over 300 motorcycles could be heard as Barksdale riders, including 15 917th Wing reservists, joined fellow motorcycle enthusiasts for the Veterans for Veterans Bike Event Saturday, Nov. 11 in Shreveport-Bossier, La.

The ride, which has raised nearly $8,000 in proceeds so far, took motorcyclists down Arthur Teague Parkway, across the Jimmy Davis Bridge, up Clyde Fant Parkway, ending at the Overton Brooks Veterans Administration Medical Facility on Stoner Avenue in Shreveport.

One hundred percent of the money raised, Barksdale Freedom Riders director Chief Master Sgt. Steve Stakes said, will go to the VA Voluntary Services at the hospital. They in turn purchase necessities for hospitalized veterans there.

Events like this bring about a sense of pride among Barksdale enthusiasts.

"When the veterans wheel out to see us and be a part of the event, the expressions on their faces are priceless," Chief Stakes said. "That is our pay off for the months of hard work, pulling off a first class event for them. They truly are America's heroes, and we can never forget that."

Formed in 2004, the Barksdale Freedom Riders, a group of some 40 base motorcycle riders, have a simple message according to club member and 917th Wing Air Reserve Technician Master Sgt. Gerry Currington. "Camaraderie, esprit de corps, to promote motorcycle safety and awareness within the Barksdale riding community, and most of all, we exist to give back to the base and local community," he said.

"I've only been with the club about a month, and it is quite obvious that this group meets that charter," Sergeant Currington said.

Community reaction to the club and its mission is all positive, according to Sergeant Currington. "There were people all along the route waving flags and showing their support," he said.

"To see several hundred flag-waving motorcycles roaring down the parkways honoring our veterans with police escorts is a sight to see. If that doesn't put a lump in your throat and raise the hair on your neck with American Pride, then you may be unconscious," Chief Stakes said.

For Barksdale Freedom Riders membership information, go to their Web site: www.barksdalefreedomriders.org, click on "About Us" and "Membership."