May 26, 2011 - You Made Me Proud

Wytheville yet again made me extremely proud to serve its citizens as Mayor. I have received wonderful compliments all day long! The wonderful large crowd lining the streets and filling Withers Park was back in full force today!

We had another very moving program presented by the students of Spiller Elementary. There were many riders – and local residents as well – moved to tears. Leigh Beamer did an especially fine job of “While the Band Is Playing Dixie”, Sydney Stephens did a magnificent job of “You Are Our Heroes”, and Audra White stole many hearts – and caused many tears – with her rendition of “Shenandoah”.

Main St was lined with people waiving and cheering as we rolled out of Town. And the Wytheville Fire Department had several flags –including the biggest one – flying as we crossed under Lovers Lane on our way out of town.

We rode to Montvale Elementary School where the students gave us a very good lunch and a great program. They received pins, stickers, pencils, and beads from the Riders. We rode on to the D-Day Memorial and then to the Salem VA Center. We were able to meet and talk to many of the residents and employees of the Center. There are amazing stories of what some of these American Heroes did to preserve our freedom! Sadly, many of these men and women receive only one visit a year – when The Run comes to see them. There were loads of pins, pencils, bumper stickers, and of course handshakes and hugs, given away. The Family came to see its own. One of the employees told me that the residents were asking her at breakfast yesterday if we had arrived yet. It was like kids at Christmas – the residents glad to have visitors, and the Riders glad to hug a hero.

Then it was off to the hotels and camping spots for a good night’s rest as we roll earlier than usual tomorrow in order to reach DC ahead of the Central Route.

I was pleased to have my 19 year old son, Tyler ride his bike with us again today. He’s ridden 11 years now, two on his own bike. He rode up front in First Platoon and handled himself very well. There aren’t many “crotch rocket” bikes on The Run and Tyler got some good natured ribbing from the 450 Aunts and Uncle he rode with today. But his heart is in the right place and seemed to enjoy the challenge and the experience.

I also wish son Chris a Happy Birthday today as I’m missing it as well. This adventure is nearly ended.