Photo By Sgt. 1st Class Daniel Wyatt | CRIPPLE CREEK, Colorado – The 10th Special Forces Group (Airborne), was presented a...... read more read more
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An historic gold mining town nestled in the Colorado Mountains and located near the base of Pikes Peak, Cripple Creek was the final destination for a procession of more than 3,000 reverberating motorcycles. The procession cruised through twisting roads in route to pay tribute to Veteran’s past and present, and those who’ve made the ultimate sacrifice while serving the Nation.
Once the riders were parked, The Veteran’s parade got underway with participants from the 10th SFG (A), the 4th Infantry Division, and the North American Aerospace Defense Command, and the United States Northern Command Honor Guard.
The multitude of events included a 10th SFG (A) vehicles and weapons static display, POW/MIA Recognition Ride, 30th Annual Veteran’s Remembrance Ceremony, Vietnam Veterans Memorial Wall Traveling Tribute, aircraft flyovers, Wild West gun fighters, vendors, and free live concerts.
A key event during the festival was the Remembrance Ceremony where a bronze plaque was dedicated at the Veteran’s Memorial paying tribute to the fallen from 10th SFG (A).
"It was a really great event. You could not have asked for more perfect weather. It was impressive to see not only the amount of motorcycles in the rally, but also the attendance by the community,” said 10th Group’s Executive Officer. “The recognition of our unit by the city was an absolute honor. Group had a really good showing with not only the parade marchers, but also the awesome static display of vehicles, weapons, and radios.”
As the ceremony ended, the names of service members lost were called out and followed by a solemn, "Welcome Home. Rest in Peace," as the bell tolled after each name.
“It’s been an inspiring show of camaraderie, patriotism and support for U.S. Military Veterans,” said a Soldier assigned to the Group Support Battalion, 10th SFG (A). “It makes you feel appreciated for what we do as Soldiers and I’m honored to be a part of this.”
Another highlight of the day, was the Memorial Wall. At 480 feet long, the traveling wall is an 80% sized replica of the Vietnam Memorial in Washington DC. Visitors to the Wall were provided materials to rub the desired names of lost friends or family members on a commemorative paper as a keepsake. This year marks the 25th Anniversary of the rally, and the 11th consecutive year for the appearance of the Traveling Wall at the Veterans event.
“The tribute gives everyone a chance to see their loved ones’ names. It really tugs at your heart,” said a Soldier assigned to the Group Support Battalion, 10th SFG (A). “It’s an awesome feeling having Veterans come up to you and thank you for your service. It’s my pleasure to serve these guys.”
The rally brought a sense of comradery to Veteran’s past and present making the historic mining town strike gold once again.
The Salute to Veterans Rally has become the largest Veteran's event in the state, with this year’s crowd reaching over 32,000.
| Date Taken: | 08.19.2017 |
| Date Posted: | 08.29.2017 13:10 |
| Story ID: | 246418 |
| Location: | CRIPPLE CREEK, COLORADO, US |
| Web Views: | 357 |
| Downloads: | 2 |
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