Ft. Irwin/NTC will be conducting the 5th Annual Welcome Home Vietnam Vets on 28 March 2014. The Patriot Guard Riders has participated in this in years past but not in an official capacity, only as riders. This is an event to “welcome home” all veterans from the Vietnam era, more specifically those that served in the war torn country, that otherwise did not receive a heroes welcome back then. After arrival at Ft Irwin the vets are honored by all active duty personnel presently serving at the facility.
Though not a vet I have personally participated in two of the runs and I personally know of hero’s that were deeply traumatized by the war and how the Welcome Home event has brought a sense of closure. The event is happily serving its purpose.
Last year the event was completely staged on the truck bypass to the fort. This year it will return to the Marine Corps Logistics Base/Nebo parade field in Barstow. Briefing at 0845 and escorted departure soon thereafter down old 66 to Daggett, down Yermo-Daggett Rd past the Silver Valley HS where students, many of whom live on the fort, have staged along the curb to greet us. From there we move to the Ft Irwin cutoff to the New Ft Irwin Rd and the 35+ mi trip to the gates. The residents of Ft Irwin also stage along the neighborhood curb sides to greet us. For safety sake please remain in the parade route.
Timeline of events:
This is the “registration” page for the event.
http://www.irwin.army.mil/Documents/Vietnam%20Ceremony%202012/VietnamEraVeteransWelcomeHomeCeremony.aspxIt is not mandatory to register but it does help facilitate organizers for a head count for serving food (not free).
Plenty of fuel in Barstow but if our riders wish we can stage at the Chevron Station, 2890 Lenwood Rd, Barstow, CA 92311
Maplink:
http://goo.gl/rIrnt7Brian Zane, aka Spyderman
SoCal PGR Road Captain
brianzane@verizon.net
760-953-9915
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