Rollin' Thunder

May was filled with activities, all of which my family participated in to benefit others, such as my uncle's myasthenia gravis 5k, a good-bye BBQ party, an reunion party, a birthday party, an AIDs walk, a gala for a free clinic, and the Thunder Ride that happened this weekend.

And I will never forget that ride. I say this because my breath was stolen by the veterans and patriots that attended the event.

My sister and I were given the opportunity to document the event, so prior to the ride, my uncle brought me along the route to find a location where I could record. And he found this beautiful spot that has the rolling country in it with a long winding road, stretching for miles. Initially, I just thought 'What a cool spot. I hope enough bikes come.'

Oh, there were plenty.

The road was covered. From the very top of the hill and beyond all the way back to me, there were bikes. And as they passed, almost every biker waved to the camera, with big smiles, which just melted my heart.

But, there was just a moment of shock. I can't explain it, but as the motorcycles rode away, it felt as though they were leaving to save the world. I felt such immense pride that I had the chance to be around these veterans, that I have the opportunity to honor them for their service. I felt true, raw American pride. It does not lie in politics and government. It does not lie in sports and entertainment. It does not lie in industry and profit. It lies in the people that constitute America. And I want to say, it exists even more in those who have served.

Veterans, thank you for your service...

Here's the video my sister and I made of the Thunder Ride to honor the warriors.