Bikers Rumble through the Tunnels to support Navy/Marine Corps Relief Society

Photo By Petty Officer 2nd Class Brian Goodwin | Volunteers for the 9th annual "Rumble Through The Tunnels", sponsored by Bayside Harley-Davidson, register themselves and their bikes at Harbor Park, Norfolk, Oct. 10. The registration fees go towards the Navy/Marine Corps Relief Society.  

NORFOLK, UNITED STATES

10.10.2009

Courtesy Story

Navy Public Affairs Support Element East - (Reserve)

NORFOLK, Va. — Hundreds of service members and civilian bike riders gathered at Harbor Park in downtown Norfolk Oct. 10 for the ninth annual "Rumble Through The Tunnels," hosted by Bayside Harley-Davidson.

All entry fees to participate went toward the Navy/Marine Corps Relief Society.

"Our dealership has always supported our nation's military," said Kevin Johnson, president of Bayside Harley-Davidson dealership and retired Chief Hospital Corpsman. "I think it speaks volumes that we not only have the military here for the ride, but we have civilians out here as well."

The Bayside Harley-Davidson dealership has raised over $100,000 over the last eight years for the Navy/Marine Corps Relief Society. The idea for this fundraiser stemmed from fellow co-worker Maurice Slaughter, who came up with the idea of riding on motorcycles for charity. Steve Adkins, another co-worker, gave the idea for riding numerous motorcycles through the tunnels. Several volunteers looked forward to riding their bikes while providing funds for the military.

"Every time there is a charity event that involves me riding my bike, I'm all over it," said retired Interior Communications Specialist 1st Class (SW) Brian Powell. "I've done "Rumble Through The Tunnels" before and they always have a great turn out."

"This event allows me to get some of my guys off the ship and ride around together for a few hours," said USS Oak Hill's Command Master Chief Pat Holden. "I think it also builds good camaraderie between bikers from all walks of life, military and civilian."

At the end of the event, a bonus check was awarded to the Navy/Marine Corps Relief Society from Bayside Harley-Davidson.

• Date Taken: 10.10.2009
• Date Posted: 10.13.2009 11:50
• Story ID: 40026
• Location: NORFOLK, US