American Firefighters Motorcycle Club and Association

Heroes Ride - #1

1st "Heroes Ride"

2005 - Photos

Honoring approximately 22 returning "Wounded in Action" Veterans from Iraq and Afghanistan the ride started out and took place from the U.S. Marine Corps Recruiting HQ. in Des Plaines, Illiniois. Simultaneously while the riders were lining up in Des Plaines, a luncheon was taking place honoring these Veterans at an Historic Chicago Firehouse, Engine Company 98, on the near northside of dowtown Chicago. On hand were Chicago Fire Commissioner Cortez Trotter, a Marine Corp Colonel, members of the FDNY Engine Co. 230 Brooklyn, who had flown on in, the local Director of the FBI Chicago Offices, 3 Federal Judges from the Dirksen Federal Builing along with many an enlisted serviceman whom had served in Iraq or Afghanistan.

Meanwhile, only a few bikes were to be expected by the Vets themselves, a huge showdown of Riders left the MCRD HQ in Des Plaines, Illinois heading into Chicago and then via south down Lake Shore Drive to Engine 98. After a brief stop and welcoming there, these Vets were then escorted along with many on the back of a Harley, - Police escorted lights and sirens down Michigan ave, back onto Lake Shore Drive again and to the Monteford Point Marine Assoc. on 71st street. With many a Chicago Police Officer saluting at attention enroute, the vets and riders were then greeted by standing "at attention saluting" Chicago Firefighters of Engine Companies 54 & 47, and Trucks 20 & 30 -with ladders crossed in an honorable and moving solute upon their arrival. A great time was had by all.

This was a great and deserved "Homecoming"

Semper Fi