News Summary
The Smoky Mountain Thunder Memorial Ride will hold its final event this Memorial Day weekend, honoring fallen servicemembers and celebrating 25 years of tribute. Founded by Vietnam veteran Ron Giddis, this year’s ride will start at the Sevier County Courthouse and traverse five counties, culminating in a closing ceremony featuring a 21-gun salute. The ride aims to educate the community about the significance of Memorial Day while encouraging younger generations to understand and honor the sacrifices of veterans.
Sevierville, Tennessee – The Smoky Mountain Thunder Memorial Ride is set to make its final journey this Memorial Day weekend, wrapping up 25 years of honoring America’s fallen servicemembers. Initiated by Vietnam veteran Ron Giddis, the ride has grown into a significant tribute in East Tennessee, drawing participants from various age groups and backgrounds.
This year’s ride will commence on Sunday, May 25, with an opening ceremony scheduled for 10 a.m. at the Sevier County Courthouse. Riders will hit the road an hour later, traversing five counties before concluding the event at Veterans Overlook in Grainger County. The closing ceremony, anticipated to wrap up around 12:30 p.m., will feature a 21-gun salute and special guests, including representatives from the American Eagle Foundation.
The Smoky Mountain Thunder Memorial Ride serves not only as a tribute to military personnel but also aims to educate the community about the true significance of Memorial Day. This observance originated in the 1860s to honor lives lost during the American Civil War and blossomed throughout the 1900s to acknowledge all those who sacrificed their lives in U.S. wars. According to recent data, approximately 1.3 million Americans have died while serving in the armed forces.
Giddis, who has been the face of the ride since its inception, expressed optimism about the event, highlighting the increasing participation of younger attendees. His hope is that these younger participants will gain a deeper understanding of the sacrifices made by veterans, fostering a connection between generations. Giddis has indicated that this could be the last ride he leads, as he seeks to pass the responsibility on to a younger individual who has already shown interest in continuing this legacy.
The ride has become a beacon for those looking to honor those who have served. Throughout its history, it has successfully attracted a diverse group of participants, uniting people from various walks of life in remembrance of the fallen. As the final edition approaches, Giddis and other organizers are excited to ensure that the essence and dedication to the cause remain intact despite their planned transition.
Interested riders should arrive early to ensure they are prepared for the day’s activities. The proceeding ride will not only promote camaraderie among veterans and their supporters but also reaffirm the community’s commitment to remembering those who made the ultimate sacrifice for the nation’s freedom. Local law enforcement will assist with traffic control ensuring the safety of participants as they navigate the designated routes through the five counties.
As the day culminates in the solemn yet celebratory closing ceremony, participants will reflect on the meaning of their ride and the honor of carrying forward the memory of fallen servicemembers. With its rich history spanning a quarter of a century, the Smoky Mountain Thunder Memorial Ride stands poised to conclude its journey on a high note, reinforcing the importance of remembrance and community support for veterans.
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