RTTW Writeup

[Guest]

Found this on a website at work and thought all thoughs that went on the RTTW might like to read it.

Thousands of motorcycles descended on the National Memorial Arboretum in Staffordshire in the UK's first 'Ride to the Wall' on Saturday 11 October 2008 in commemoration of all troops killed in the line of duty since the Second World War.

Modelled on the huge American 'Run for the Wall', where thousands upon thousands of bikers take part, the UK event gave people in this country the opportunity to show the respect that the members of the Armed Forces deserve, as well as raising funds for the upkeep of the stunning stone memorial.

The idea for the event, which attracted around 3,000 bikers, stemmed from the first Remembrance Day service at the Arboretum in November 2008, when a small contingent of Harley Davidson riders and a surprising number of young people who attended the service, were particularly moved by the event.

The Nene Valley Harley Owners Group is behind the event and Director Martin Dickinson said:

"The initial response to the idea of a ride and service was overwhelming with many offers of assistance to help with the planning and promotion of the event. This is an excellent way to show our gratitude and remember the members of the Armed Forces who have made the ultimate sacrifice."

The 'Parade of Flags' bikes formed a 'Guard of Honour' with bikes parking up either side of Millennium Avenue near Lichfield and a short memorial service took place with a Piper and a bugler playing the Last Post.

The National Memorial Arboretum monument features the names of 16,000 servicemen and women killed on duty or by terrorist action since the end of the Second World War engraved around its walls.

Located in the heart of the country, the monument comprises 150 acres of trees and memorials devoted to the concept of Remembrance. Set within the National Forest of Staffordshire, it was established in 1997, on former gravel and sand pits gifted from Lafarge Aggregates. It already contains 130 memorials of national significance.

The Arboretum is the home of the Armed Forces Memorial which was opened in October 2007. It is a striking and emotive memorial and is quickly assuming national significance.

[Guest]

I was there

[Guest]

Iwas also here

[Guest]

not sure if this has been mentioned but watching the vids again and on this one we are all visible at 4.15 till 4.30

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Q3lE3Acc05w

[cruz]

Me too at 0.55-1.00, side next to camera. With Legion flag.