Photo By Senior Airman Anania Tekurio | Col. Ty Neuman, 28th Bomb Wing vice commander, recognized and honored four veterans...... read more read more
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ELLSWORTH AIR FORCE BASE, S.D. – The roar of more than 200 Airmen, family members and civilian motorcyclist engines filled the air outside the Pride Hangar in anticipation of the 15th Annual Dakota Thunder Motorcycle Run Aug. 4 at Ellsworth Air Force Base.
The event, hosted by Green Knights Dakota Thunder Motorcycle Club, began on the flightline and offered participants the opportunity to tour and photograph a B-1 bomber static display before riding to Sturgis, South Dakota.
To kick off the nearly 60-mile journey through the Black Hills, Col. Ty Neuman, 28th Bomb Wing vice commander, addressed the crowd, highlighting the importance of recognizing veterans and emphasizing safety while riding.
"Today is a great day to enjoy the ride through the Black Hills," Neuman said. “It’s also a time for us to come together to remember and honor veterans.”
As an added safety measure, Box Elder, Rapid City and Sturgis law enforcement officials escorted the group, led by Neuman, from Ellsworth to downtown Sturgis.
Staff Sgt. Michael Lara, 28th Operations Support Squadron aircrew flight equipment technician, said he was excited to participate in the ride, having never attended before.
"This is my first time riding in a big group like this," Lara said. “I’m excited but a little nervous – it’s amazing how many people are here participating.”
At the culmination of the run, Mark Carstensen, Sturgis mayor, greeted the riders and expressed his gratitude for the veterans in attendance.
"Every year we honor veterans during the rally's military appreciation day," Carstensen said. "This year is the 75th anniversary of the Sturgis Motorcycle Rally, and we are paying a special honor to veterans from four wars."
Four veterans from World War II, the Korean and Vietnam Wars, and Operation Iraqi Freedom were recognized during a special ceremony, where Neuman presented the honorees with an American flag that had been flown in combat over Iraq and Syria in support of Operation Inherent Resolve.
"We thank all service members for the many sacrifices they make," Carstensen said. "They are all heroes and deserve to be shown respect and appreciation for what they do."
Following the ceremony, the honored veterans were escorted to Main Street where a B-1 bomber conducted a flyover at 1,000 feet putting the final touch on this year’s military appreciation day.
| Date Taken: | 08.12.2015 |
| Date Posted: | 08.12.2015 12:15 |
| Story ID: | 172920 |
| Location: | BOX ELDER, SD, US |
| Web Views: | 58 |
| Downloads: | 0 |
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