Today was so very exciting for me. When I rode the last day to DC with another organization, I was riding with my dad. Unfortunately, he had a mechanical issue with his bike and we found ourselves arriving to DC much later than the pack. It was gratifying to complete that mission, but I missed arriving with the family I’d made over the course of our cross country journey. Today was different. As we rode into Arlington my emotions overcame me and I was a wreck in my helmet. Those who had arrived before us from different routes across the country were waving us into the parking lot with flags, salutes, and cheering. There were hugs all around, photos were taken and contact information for new family was exchanged. We bonded as brothers and sisters aligned to one purpose. Those who were strangers at first are now family whose shared experiences through the honoring of fallen heroes, rain, wind, and sewing into the communities we visited along the way have woven our hearts together. None of us will ever be the same. We have run a segment of the race set before us and you have been part of our cloud of witnesses; Hebrews 12:1.
The morning started under threat of rain but we mostly experienced sporadic sprinkles. The heavy rains didn’t materialize until well after our mid-afternoon arrival. As is our tradition we started the morning safety briefing with the Pledge of Allegiance and prayer followed by information about our route and the hazards we’d face on the road. Lastly, and most importantly, Audrey told us about the fallen we’d honor in the Missing Man formation. Each story is compelling and it is one of the most important parts of each day.
Gratefully, the day was very uneventful. The roads were only a little hectic getting into the city whereas in years past, the congestion has been tremendous and the ride treacherous. Our day was rather short consisting of just three legs and two stops. The first stop was for gas and a very early lunch. The second stop was a gas stop, which was paid for by three of our riders who returned back toward home at that point. It was great riding a few days with these wonderful friends. It was even more special having my family meet them.
Our arrival does not mean our mission is over. The mission is not over until we visit The Vietnam Veteran’s Memorial, and for me it extends to the Korean and the WWII memorial. I’ve ridden this entire ride in memory of the grandfather of my Worship Pastor. Over this weekend, I’ll take his grandfather’s bio and photo to each of these memorials in honor of his sacrifice for country.
I’ve included a few images from the beginning and the end of the day.
Nutz’ bike decorated with love 
Morning briefing 
Riding for Spaz 
More morning briefing 
A photo with Crysten at ride’s end. 
Our new friend Heather 
Myself and Scooter 
Crysten and Barry: We made it! 
Steve! We did it! 
Mack with Catherine and I in Arlington
