The Northern Virginia Trail Riders (NVTR), joined by members of the Family Offroad Riders of Prince William County (FORPWC), the Potomac Vintage Riders (PVR), and the Road and Trail (R & T) Club, launched 40-plus vehicle and 50 riders in this year’s National Memorial Day Parade on Monday, May 25.

Joining 140-plus other parade units, this caravan passed-in-review before Admiral Mike Mullen, Chairman, Joint Chiefs of Staff, and thousands of cheering spectators.

More Photos: http://boitanophotography.smugmug.com/gallery/8394571_x9eNz#551037977_FRYcB

Former NVTR Secretary John Roberts started this ball rolling, suggesting an off-road motorized parade unit two years ago. This second appearance included more than twice as many vehicles and riders as the first.

I’ll list as many contributors to the event’s success as I can think of; apologies if I missed anyone; know your efforts were appreciated anyway.

President Brad Convis—brought banners and mounting hardware he’d stored since last year.

Trailmaster Don Kirkpatrick—brought miniature American flags for distribution, waiver forms.

Secretary Tommy Dietz—procured Helmet Skinz for all.

Treasurer Joe Epperson—provided loaner jerseys for “honorary NVTR members” for the parade.

Adam Mancewicz, architect of lead vehicle banner frames, was a constant cheerleader.

John Soma—provided drinks and snacks, assembled and disassembled (with Matthew Copeland’s help) banner setup in the field.

Jerry Compton, guest rider from Fauquier County—provided Rhino RUV; decorated with two “V for Victory!” American flags; our go-to guy for required minimum parade vehicle for two years. Partners John Capuria and Kenneth Stanley “got ‘er done” many ways, helping out in the and Assembly and Dispersal Areas on parade day.

Al Conte, of Potomac Vintage Riders, had Jerry and crew transport his Can-Am (!) bike to the parade, adding lots of historical interest to the group. PVR made a generous grant to the parade effort; thanks, Al!

Ernie Audino, of FORPWC (and “interlocking” NVTR member) did an outstanding job coordinating FORPWC’s participation. FORPWC bought two gross miniature American flags for distribution, purchased their own Helmet Skinz.

FORPWC had a crowd-pleasing array of children participating; so did NVTR member J. D. Clanton with his two sons; great job by all young people involved.

Photo-Journalist and NVTR member Steve Boitano covered the event; please post the link where your images can be viewed as soon as it’s “up,” Steve! (Gotta see how that shot of Ernie and me saluting Admiral Mullen turned out!)

Thanks to Will, for the loan of his mega-trailer to transport Ken Moore’s Kubota lead vehicle.

As for Ken Moore, much obliged for the loan of your RUV; an ideal rolling supply depot, where you issued and recovered jerseys and Helmet Skinz, handed out miniature American flags, and processed waiver forms. I know all parade participants join me in profound condolence, as your brother’s funeral was held the day before the parade.

NOW A WORD FOR OUR SPONSORS!

First, to Jim Roberts, President, American Veterans Center: Thank you for the opportunity you provided all of us to honor America’s fallen heroes.

To Todd Marcocci, Under the Sun Productions, for resources provided.

For Mike, of Motovation Racing (Helmet Skinz) for custom headgear cover for Brigadier General Audino, and promotional consideration.

For Editor Jerry Smith of Motorcycle Times, for event preview publicity.

For P Street Giant Foods, for transportation assistance.

For manager Yared of U Street Parking, Inc., for City Center (9th & I) lot consideration.

Finally, I extend my own personal thanks to all who participated and supported the effort; I appreciate the privilege of working with this dedicated group of off-roaders!

Jim Cowgill