Patriotism on Wheels-July 4, 2002

Ron,"Elvis," Mike & Nadine (in her Yoo-hoo jersey-she confesses she was, "Yooooo-hooooooed," just the other day) and Johnny B, met up with the famous "Babes on Bikes," and Babe Magnets at the Iwo Jima Memorial for their annual patriotic tour of historical sites and trivia trade off. Thirteen riders and bikes were well decorated in red, white, and blue with balloons, flags, flag pennes, and sparkle metallic.

We first rode into Fort Meyer, they checked our bike bags and such. To speed our entry, One soldier got Lei, while on duty. We stopped at the parade grounds where the Wright brothers demonstrated their airplane in 1908. The army wasn't sure it had any practical purpose back then. We stopped by the Caisson stables and spoke with a soldier part of the unit that takes care of the horses and responsible for Military funeral ceremonies. Again, another Lei'ing. we rode alongside Arlington cemetery, crossed a car free Memorial bridge (after a check point), stopped at the new Memorial to George Mason. Looks like this George didn't get credit for so many precepts of his that are in the Declaration of Independence that perhaps we believe to be of Jefferson's creation.

We rode down to Haines Point and back to the Jefferson Memorial, where, "Gentleman," Jim's balloon went aloft. Dropping the bike, climbing stairs two at a time with a final jump, was a valiant effort to recapture it, sorry. Through another check point, we made our way along the Mall to the Capitol Building. With our history lessons completed, like kids out of school, it was time for some playground fun. We rounded a corner near Archives and without checkpoint resistance, burst onto Constitution Avenue and rode down the Parade route (10 minutes before starting time) to the cheers and waves of the waiting flag totin, crowd. "Happy Birthday America!!," What a blast! We made a wide swing through town and then back to Lincoln Memorial. "If the statue of Lincoln stood up, how tall would he be? If you guessed 27 feet, you're right. That's just one of the tidbits of trivia and historical fact that Jann so generously prepared and dispensed throughout the ride for our benefit. Thank you Jann for being so thoughtful, and kind to make the journey that much more memorable for all of us. We are so lucky to know you.The day crowd seemed a bit smaller and to go through so many check points was definitely strange, but expected.

What an awesome gift we have received through the sacrifices from so many. We must protect it, cherish it, and appreciate it.

Let freedom ring!

JB