Saturday morning

A nearly ideal, weather wise, Saturday morning in the San Diego region saw 68 motorcyclists come together in the early morning hours.  While most folks were probably sleeping in or enjoying a leisurely breakfast and second cup of coffee, these bikers gathered at a funeral home in the town of La Mesa, just east of San Diego.

Funeral home on a Saturday morning you ask?  Some might assume, with disdain in mind, that it must be for the services for "one of those bikers."  Couldn't be farther from the truth.

These bikers came to honor a fallen sailor, Petty Officer Curtis Adams, U. S. Navy, who had been shot down after stopping for who he thought was a stranded motorist.  



To honor him, these bikers would escort him to the San Diego airport for the final flight home.

Arranged by the Patriot Guard Riders, this morning's mission included bikers representing several groups.  The prevailing themes across the groups were patriotism, military service, and honoring for our men and women in uniform.  In addition to the bikers, which included some younger active duty members of the military, there were roughly a dozen cars carrying Petty Officer Adams' fellow sailors, those who had served with him.  

The package, as it is referred to, ultimately grew to 68 motorcycles, 14 cars, and the hearse.  The Pledge of Allegiance was recited, a prayer offered, and mission briefing provided.

At the appointed time, a flag line was set, honors were rendered, the pall bearers transferred the remains into the hearse, and the package departed and headed to the airport.  Once there, they repeated the process, rendering honors as Petty Officer Adams was delivered to the airline cargo representatives.

A somber Saturday morning, with dozens of folks, the majority of whom had never met Petty Officer Adams, coming together as patriots.

In this hyper-intense period leading up to the mid-term elections, I noticed the absence of the media and elected officials.  Damn!  A young sailor dies, gunned down in the midst of trying to do the right thing, and not one member of the media or one elected official could spare even a few minutes out of their Saturday morning.   

Not a routine Sunday

It was not a routine Sunday evening for the dozen or so  citizens who gathered at the funeral home.

While others were watching football, these patriots came together -- voluntarily -- to escort a fallen Marine to the San Diego Airport for his final airplane ride home to New York.  Shaking hands with the Staff Sergeant serving as Marine Corps Casualty Assistance Calls Officer (CACO), these patriots expressed their condolences at the death of her Marine.

For members of the Patriot Guard Riders (PGR), giving of their time, no matter when, no matter the day, is not at all uncommon.

As volunteers all, they proudly answer the call when missions are announced.  Most are veterans.  Most are bikers.  But not all.  But what each and every man and woman shares are patriotism, unbridled pride of country, and an abiding sense of duty.  Duty to the fallen, whether it is a soldier, sailor, airman, or Marine who died on active duty or a deceased veteran who has honorably served our country.

This evening, six proudly volunteered to serve as pall bearers at the small funeral home in a quiet area of a small town adjacent to San Diego, while the others raised American flags and saluted.  Once they loaded the hearse, they formed up, with many motorcycles flying large American flags.  At the signal, they began their procession down the streets and onto the freeways for the relatively short ride to the airport, where they once again formed up and presented honors as the casket was removed from the hearse.  The pall bearers executed a slow salute, touched the casket, then placed their hands over their hearts in a final gesture of respect.

Even after the air cargo personnel had moved the casket into the warehouse, preparatory to loading it on the aircraft, it seemed the PGR were reluctant to leave their brother-in-arms.  They stood, many still holding their flags, in silent tribute.  Eventually they walked to their motorcycles and departed, one by one.

Not a routine Sunday by any means.  

Standing for one who stood for us

A picture is worth a thousand words, as the saying goes.  In this one, military veterans from the SoCal Patriot Guard Riders serve as pall bearers for a homeless Marine Corps veteran who was killed by a hit-and-run driver, while he slept on the sidewalk. 

Standing for one who stood for us.

Memorial Day, Run for the Wall, and Rolling Thunder

With Memorial Day just around the corner, hundreds of bikers are riding towards our nation's capital, as Run for the Wall, the brainchild of retired Marine James Gregory, makes its way to Rolling Thunder.  

One patriotic artist captures these uniquely American events and expressions of unadulterated love of country.

Renowned artist David Uhl superbly captures the essentials of Rolling Thunder: patriotism, service & sacrifice, American bikers, and independence.  

Marine Staff Sergeant Chambers is now an iconic element of the day.

And the realized vision of one man, Artie Muller.

On the road again

Spring came to most of the nation, even if some late unseasonable storms played havoc in portions of the country.  Nevertheless, as spring passes and summer approaches, the bikers across the states begin hitting the highways and byways and planning for the next road trip.

  

Here in the southwest, the Laughlin River Run informally marks the beginning of the serious riding season.  Of course, the area's prevalent weather encourages and permits year 'round riding.  The serious riding, however, comes late spring and into the summer and early fall.

For patriots and Vietnam veterans, the annual Run for the Wall in May is a must do, bucket list ride.

For the rest of us, thoughts of open, virtually traffic free roads dominate. 

Whether riding solo or two up, the annual road trip is singularly important.

Away from urban sprawl, perhaps along the coast line, or rolling along in valleys and over mountains, the real biker contemplates the open road.

As written of earlier, the experience actually indescribable to one who has never thrown a leg over a motorcycle.  Apart from the freedom accorded a rider, who is out in the elements.  This physical expression of independence is unlike anything else.  Yes, the so-called biker image may play into it for some.

And, to be honest, the looks one receives out on the road are uniquely satisfying, whether at the road side eatery, when stopped for gas, or while just resting between miles.  Young boys, eyes wide in amazement.  Adult males, middle-aged and older, with their woulda, coulda, shoulda envious stares.  Yep, those looks contribute to the experience.

But the best part for this old gray beard is simply rolling along the empty-to-near-empty road, with the sounds of the bike accompanying the basic pleasure of riding a motorcycle.  

   
I, for one, am narrowing down the when and have opened discussions with my lifelong buddy and fellow rider as to where.  The northwest?  Arizona, when it's cooler?  Who knows.  By June, however, the when and where will be set and serious planning underway.  Can't wait.

Far from ordinary

For the vast majority of our fellow citizens in La Mesa, California, it was most probably an ordinary, average Thursday.  Nothing memorable.  Simply routine.  However, for one family, the day was traumatic, as they laid to rest their husband, father, grandfather.

At the funeral home, the family was joined by volunteers from the Patriot Guard Riders (PGR), who came to honor and pay their respects to a veteran, "standing for those who stood for us."

Some of the PGR went ahead to the Miramar National Cemetery, preparing to honor the arrival of their fellow veteran by standing a flag line.  Others escorted the procession as it made its way to the cemetery, American flag flying from some of the motorcycles.

At the committal shelter the volunteers, mostly veterans, formed another flag line to honor their brother.

  
This they did in supporting the family and (in this case) the Navy Honor Guard.

Not one of the PGR volunteers was acquainted with the veteran they were honoring this day.  There were no connections; no links to serving on the same ship at the same time.  The only shared experience was having served our great nation.

Indeed, it was not a ordinary, routine, or average day for the family.  Nor was it an ordinary, routine, or average day for the PGR members.  In fact, for this Patriot Guard Rider it was far from it.  How can one not be touched by the raw, gut wrenching emotion displayed by a grandson?  Hearing his anguished sobs and seeing the obvious pain.  The tears of the family members, with their voices catching during comments about their loved one touched us all.

No, it was not an ordinary, average, or routine day.

It was an important day, as strangers voluntarily came together to honor a fellow veteran.  As they do countless times during the year.  The race, ethnicity, gender, age, cultural, and other socially prominent identifiers used by all too many to separate us matter not to the PGR.  The only identifier that matters is that one who is or has served honorably was being laid to rest.

Tomorrow there will be another mission, with another following on Tuesday.  And another, then another, and another.

No routine, average, or ordinary days.   

Unbridled generosity, unabashed patriotism

Motorcyclists (aka bikers) are some of nation's most generous folks.  Every weekend, across the country, bikers come together to ride for a cause.  

Some rides support recognizable causes, like "the cure."  Other rides are local poker runs to support individual needs.

For a few dollars, the biker usually has the opportunity to win or get a little something -- maybe a t-shirt -- while enjoying a ride in the company of like minded motorcyclists.  The proceeds from the run go to the designated cause or purpose.  But it much, much more than simply dropping some dollars into the collection bucket.  

Sharing the American born and raised love for independence embodied in the biker culture, they come out on their rides to be part of an experience.  Maybe a few dozen riders.  Maybe a few hundred.  Maybe a few thousand.  Maybe along country roads.  Maybe on freeways and highways.  All part of the experience of a charity run of one type or another.  Occasionally the run provides an opportunity to show the larger community their generosity, like a toy run prior to Christmas.

In addition to their incredible generosity, bikers are extremely patriotic.  Indeed, many are veterans.  Each May, one large group of bikers leaves Los Angeles, heading to the nation's capital, in a massive demonstration that patriotism never goes out of style.

The destination for Run to the Wall is Rolling Thunder.

From across the nation, tens of thousands of bikes roll through the streets of Washington DC to pay homage to those lost in Vietnam and those missing in action.  And to our servicemen and -women.  Flags flying in testament to the very freedoms embodied by riding a motorcycle.

Whatever some may think, the overwhelming majority of bikers are known for their unbridled generosity and unabashed patriotism. 

Building upon success

Though January still has a couple of days to go, it is not too early to mark calendars for 18 November, the date for the 5th Annual El Cajon HOG Toys for Tots Ride.

For the second year, El Cajon HOG will partner with the Del Mar Thoroughbred Club for this worthy event.  Starting at El Cajon Harley-Davidson, the ride destination will be the Del Mar Race Track.

It is an opportunity to support the Marine Corps Reserves Toys for Tots Program in San Diego.

Let's surpass last year.

More bikes and more toys.

Contrasts

Dictionary.com defines contrast, in part, as "to compare in order to show unlikeness or differences; note the opposite natures, purposes, etc."

What took place a week ago in El Cajon and Del Mar, California displayed a strong contrast between what some people might believe or assume about those who ride motorcycles; bikers, if you will.   It is likely many average Americans think of bikers in the image of Marlon Brando in The Wild One,

   

or so called gangs of today.  Leather, chrome, Harleys, loud pipes, denim, patches, and on and on.  But that is where the contrast comes into play.

On November 19, bikers came together to give to the community.  Specifically, the San Diego community via the U. S. Marine Corps Reserves Toys for Tots Program.  

Beginning with registering and staging at El Cajon Harley-Davidson, they rode to the Del Mar Race Track, joining with track patrons to ultimately provide an estimated 2,300 toys and $8,600 in cash donations to the Marine Corps Reserves 4th Tank Battalion, so that some children in the San Diego region will have a piece of Christmas this year.

Hundreds turned out for this most worthy of causes.

If that isn't a contrast, I don't know what is.

San Diego's Largest Toys for Tots Event

Four days until the Toys for Tots Ride on 19 November.  Help support the Marine Corps Reserves Toys for Tots program and make a difference this Christmas.  

You do not have to be a biker to join in.  Go to the Stretch Run Gate at the Del Mar Race Track, where each individual donating a new, unwrapped toy will receive free admission.  Gates open at 11:00 AM.  Join us in the Red Star Cafe and for $10 donation for Toys for Tots, come on in and buy some tickets for the opportunity drawing benefiting Toys for Tots.  The drawing starts at 11:30 and runs most of the day.  More than 80 prizes.  And check out the silent auction.

If you are a biker, register at El Cajon Harley-Davidson that morning and join the group Ride from El Cajon to the Del Mar Racetrack.  Or just head to the track, make your way to the Red Star Cafe, and register there (gates open at 11:00).

For more details, go the website.

California wild fires

The tragedy of this year's California's wild fires compels  comment.

Periodically writing about the benefits of being a biker living in California, what with the normally good-to-super riding weather, I am heartsick at the loss of life and property destruction.  Airborne drone based videos showing the devastation, like that in Santa Rosa, are compelling in displaying the tragic impact on our fellow citizens.

Having ridden through the area multiple times, on Routes 1 and 101, memories of the natural beauty abound.

These latest fires have wrecked havoc.  So, it will be hard to even imagine riding through the region in the future.

Our earnest prayers go out to all those impacted by this tragedy, particularly for the families who lost loved ones.

Save the date

Mark your calendars now for the El Cajon Harley Owners Group 4th Annual Toys for Tots Ride.  It is open to all motorcycles and classic cars.

On 19 November, the ride begins at El Cajon Harley-Davidson and heads to the Del Mar Racetrack, where registered participants get parking, entry to the track, exclusive use of the Red Star Cafe and Patio, and grandstand access in order to enjoy the horse racing. 

Check out the website for more detailed information. 

There is also an opportunity drawing, with many terrific prizes, for example:

• Nuviz motorcycle Heads Up Display (HUD)
• Art from the Official Daytona Bike Week Artist, Mathew Hintz
• Gift certificate from 7Eye by Panoptx
• Gift Certificate from 94th Aero Squadron restaurant
• Legoland tickets from American Tire Depot
• T-shirts, patches, and decals from Bikers Against Drunk Drivers
• Gift certificate for buffet for two from Barona Resort
• Buffalo Wings gift car
• Gift basket from Cafe Moto
• Gift certificates from Cali Comfort BBQ
• GoPro camera
• Custom knife from Columbia River Knife and Tool
• Art from renowned artist David Uhl
• Teddy Bears in USMC Dress Blues from eMarine PX
• Tickets and t-shirts from Good Guys Rod and Custom
• Autographed book from Greg Gutfeld
• Helmets from HJC
• Autographed CD from Jason Aldean
• Four tickets to Boyd Gaming 300 NASCAR Race from Las Vegas Motor Speedway
• Hats and t-shirts from Martin Brothers Customs
• Art from renowned artist Rick TImmons
• Gift certificates from Road ID
• Gift packs from RoadRunner Motorcycle Touring and Travel
• Tickets to San Diego Automotive Museum
• Discount certificates from Rude Dog Leathers
• Motorcycle Bag from Saddleman Leather
• Tickets to San Diego State University home football game
• Shirts and special gifts from Sgt Grit
• Round of golf and lunch for two from Sycuan Golf Resort
• Tickets to USS Midway Museum
• Gift package from Wizard Products
• Gift certificates from Wrangler Family BBQ

Saturday morning breakfast

Saturday morning in San Diego County, under overcast skies, with cool temperatures.  With my bride at an all day event, it was a perfect opportunity to head out for an early breakfast.

Can't say enough about the cooler weather, after fairly recent triple digit days.  This was near perfect riding weather.

Thinking about where to head, a favorite -- Descanso Junction -- came to mind.

As can be guessed, it is a place with a decidedly western theme.  But that's only one of the many reasons to head there.  More on that later.

So I slurped down a cup of coffee for the road, then geared up.  Having washed and polished the bike earlier in the week, it was fully fueled and ready for some fresh air on the open roads of San Diego's east county.  After getting on Route 94, turned on to Honey Springs Road, then Lyon Valley Road, and finally connected with Japatul Valley Road.  Once crossing under Interstate 8, it was a short distance on Route 79 to the restaurant.  It can definitely be described as off the beaten path, at least for those not in the know.

Seeking a restaurant on road trips has taught me to look for pick-up trucks or motorcycles.  Seeing a parking lot filled with either virtually guarantees finding good food at decent prices.  To clarify, this rule of thumb applies to looking for a restaurant, not a biker bar or hang out.  (If you need to ask the difference, you won't understand.)  At the Descanso Junction, the rule of thumb applies.  

Early this Saturday morning, motorcycles of various makes and types shared available parking with a good number of pick-ups.  Candidly, it was a bit of a surprise to see such a number of bikes early on Saturday morning.  After entering, I noted the gray beard bikers, like yours truly, were in the majority from the two wheel set.  Maybe it is because "more experienced" folks tend to rise earlier than the younger crowd.

          

Riding solo this morning, I opted for a chair at the diner style bar.  (Check out the horse shoes hanging under the bar.)  Just the right amount of chatter, laughter, and bantering with the waitstaff mixed in with subtle country and oldies music.  Near immediately I was told, "You look like you need a cup of coffee and a menu."  No argument, as I accepted both from the server Mary.

On the ride up, I knew it was going to be a choice between hotcakes and French toast.  This morning I decided on the French toast, with scrambled eggs and hash browns, for $7.  With coffee and tax, it was just over $10.  Can't beat it.

If wanting to dash in, choke down a meal, and dash out, don't go to places like Descanso Junction.  If wanting to enjoy well cooked and plentiful food, friendly conversation, and relaxation, mark this as a place to put your kick stand down.  To say it is biker friendly would be an understatement.  Good folks.  Good food.  Good service.  Good value.  Exactly right on this Saturday morning.

With a full belly a comfortable time later, I paid the bill, left a generous tip, and headed to the bike.  As I and another couple of older bikers were preparing to pull out, four riders of the younger persuasion were pulling in.  Brought to mind a changing of the guard, so to speak.  The early risers, mostly solo riders, were heading out as younger riders, many two up, were arriving.

Regardless of age or bike ridden, they all had one thing in common.  Breakfast at Descanso Junction this Saturday morning.      

California dreamin'

Spinning off from the 1960s song that spoke of dreaming of California weather when the "leaves are brown," this California dreamin' is about that next ride.  The next motorcycle.

Dreamin' about the next road trip, riding along with my buddy of more than 50 years, as we roll on to new adventures.  Riding Harley-Davidson soft tails for the past ten years, it is now time to move up to a touring bike.  The challenge is making it happen.

As another riding buddy said, buying the next ride can be afforded, but can it be justified?

But once justified and the new ride parked in the garage, then the fun really begins.  Planning for the next road trip.  There are so many options here on the west coast, event and non-event centered: Hollister Rally, Lighthouse Run, Why We Ride Quail Run, and Routes 1/101 up the California and Oregon coast lines.  Or maybe it's time to head back to Sturgis?

Dreamin' again.  Open roads.  The harmonic sounds coming from the exhausts of two bikes rolling along together.  Small towns.  Mom and Pop eateries.  Sights previously unseen.  New acquaintances we haven't yet met.  The ultimate expression of American freedom.  Encountering the unexpected, from the quaint to the sublime.  That first cold beer after a long day in the saddle.  Dreamin' again.