Operation Homefront Ride        Iron Hogs Ride for Freedom

- 17 May 2008.

What we rode for and why: Operation Homefront is an organization that provides assistance to Wounded Warrior families of all branches of the military. The services provided are in the areas of education, morale, and emergency services to the wounded warrior and family. We participated in this noble cause to help our brothers and sisters in uniform and their families during a time of need. This is what we stand for in the CVMA, Chapter #25; “Veterans Helping Veterans”.

The weather was perfect for riding, cool but not cold, warm but not hot. Chapter members formed up early at the Waffle House in Marietta and after a good WH breakfast, a few war stories and the required discussion about any new bits of chrome on our bikes it was off to Earl Small’s Harley Davidson for link-up.

Those that had not pre-registered with Operation Homefront registered at the Operation Homefront command post set up to collect money, rider information, and to pass out Operation Homefront T-shirts to the participating riders. All riders then gathered at the motorcycle assembly area that had been set up across the street from Earl Small’s Harley Davidson. This assembly point was maintained by a former MP, who still had it in him to do his job well. The motorcycles were lined up in a coned area two abreast. With kick stands down all riders and passengers awaited the command for kick stands up to begin the ride.

At preciously 1200 hours we met at the motorcycle assembly area for the ride debriefing and safety meeting given by the Chapter Commander of CVMA #25. With kickstands up, we departed for our first stop - Motorheads Bar and Grill, in McDonough.

The Cobb County Police Department provided escort to Interstate 75. They did an excellent job blocking the intersections and leading us to the interstate and they have our sincere thanks for a getting us on the road safely.

The ride south on I-75 was swift, enjoyable and without incident. The riders pulled into Motorheads at 1300 hrs where the group took a break, downed cold soda and water, ate lunch and socialized. The riders were to depart at 1400 hrs, but stood down until 1430 hrs so that other riders coming in could join the Operation Homefront riders.

At 1430 hrs the Chapter Commander called for kick stands up and we departed for Macon – our second stop. As standard operating procedure the Chapter Commander was in front leading the motorcycle riders accompanied by the Chapter XO, with the tail gunner bringing up the rear and being the last one out.
The Chapter Commander tested the situational awareness of those long since departed from active military duty by improvising on the ride route at the I-75 & I-475 intersection. I can say that all Combat Veterans responded well while maintaining awareness of their surroundings, motorcycle’s, and POV’s near them (you really needed to see this one!).

We pulled into the Clubhouse, a motorcycle friendly bar and grill in Macon at 1530 hrs. There was more food to be eaten, and refreshments to drink. After a round or two of soda, water and red bull everyone seemed to be well hydrated. A few more motorcycle riders joined the group for the ride further south to our final destination at Angel City.

The Chapter Commander gave the call for kick stands up at 1630 hrs and away we went. The final leg south was swift, and we soon exited the interstate at exit 122 and made the turn right for the final leg of this great riding day for a very good and noble cause. Soon the asphalt pavement turned into a dirt road; and on we rode into the tree line - We were at Angel City, our final destination. This is an old western town constructed in the middle of farm land, and the inspiration of two brothers, Wayne and Ralph Smith. Build it and they will come. Well, we came.

The operation Homefront riders socialized, hydrated and ate some chow (pizza) while resting up for the departure to their respective homes throughout the state. We took time to get a picture with the Homefront members and the Jim Beam Girls!

It must be said that the Combat Veterans Motorcycle Association members (full and auxiliary), and the veterans that rode with us and later joined our ranks, had a great time doing what we have all joined up to do. And that is to have fun together, ride motorcycles, and be “Veterans Helping Veterans”.

Ride Safe