Issue link: https://read.dmtmag.com/i/714189
10 nSeptember 2016n www.thunderpress.net THUNDER PRESS by Jay Anderson OCEANSIDE, CALIF., JULY 24—The word went out about a new mission. Most commonly, missions are military oriented; funerals for the fallen, funerals for veterans, welcome home for those returning from deploy- ments, homes being given to wounded warriors, and the like. This mission varied from that norm. Titled the "Ride for the Blue," today's mission was to "demonstrate our support for our local law enforcement agencies." The bikers began gathering Sunday morning in Oceanside, across from Camp Pendleton. Arriving in ones and twos or small groups, they began fi lling up the lot with all sorts of rides. The ever-present Harley- Davidsons were parked alongside Indians, Yamahas, Polaris, Can-Ams, and even a BMW, mostly two-wheeled bikes, with a few three-wheelers scat- tered here and there. Many of the bikes were adorned with something blue, to show support for law enforcement— blue ribbons, blue banners, or simply blue tape on the windshields. As the morning coolness yielded to rising temperatures, retired Carlsbad Police Commander Kathryn Demary, nickname "Pastor," showed up in her cage and offered much-appreciated cold water for everyone. She had learned about the mission and was there to support those riding in support of law enforcement. Shortly before the announced departure time, the safety and route briefi ng was given. The next desti- nation was the San Diego County Regional Law Enforcement Memorial Monument, located adjacent to the San Diego County Administration Center on Pacifi c Highway in San Diego by the bay. Because of heavy traffi c on I-5 south, the route would take the estimated 100 bikes onto Route 78 East, I-15 South, Route 163 South, and briefl y onto I-5 North until head- ing to Pacifi c Highway. As happens in every mission briefi ng, safety was stressed and then stressed again. For example, if a car wants to get into the lane in front of you, let it in. Then close up the for- mation later. For safety purposes, the group would maintain a steady speed, with most of the bikers riding in a staggered formation. Those bikes fl y- ing large American fl ags in the lead, immediately behind the ride captains. The fi ve-minute warn- ing was given and riders moved to their bikes and prepared for departure. The ride south was safe and sane, as the large formation maneuvered the various roadways. Automobiles graciously gave way for the large number of bikes and there were no incidents or prob- lems. All displayed patience and courtesy. Pulling onto Pacifi c Highway, the bikes parked in front of the County Administration Center. Dismounting, the bikers walked over to the San Diego County Regional Law Enforcement Memorial Monument. After a few moments of solemn silence, one of the bikers called the group to attention and gave the com- mand, "Present arms." The group, pre- dominantly military veterans, came to the position of attention and presented the hand salute, as their way of show- ing support for the men and women in law enforcement. There were no television crews. There were no reporters. There were no members of law enforcement. None were needed this afternoon. Those on the Ride for the Blue did not expect any recognition. They simply joined together to demonstrate their support for law enforcement. After "Present arms," the group of bikers broke up. Some headed to the San Diego Police Department Headquarters Memorial on Broadway. Others headed to another mission, escorting children from families who lost a military member to a special camp run by Tragedy Assistance Program for Survivors (TAPS). Some called it a day, having demonstrated their support for law enforcement dur- ing the basic mission. As normally happens, when the word goes out about the next mis- sion, these patriotic men and women (or others like them) will adjust their schedules and give of their time. 4 BIKERS SUPPORT THE BLUE Riding in support of law enforcement Patriot Guard Riders step up again Patriot Guard Riders pay their respects at the San Diego County Regional Law Enforcement Memorial Monument. Retired Carlsbad Police Commander Kathryn "Pastor" Demary brought water to the bikers at the staging site At the San Diego Admin Center