Rolling Thunder

Rolling Thunder & “Ride to the Wall”
By: Most Worshipful John Robert “Bob” Dean
Grand Master of Masons in Virginia 1992
June 3, 2007
“Believe me my Brethren; there is life after Grand Master”

As I look forward to Memorial Day weekend each and every year I get very excited about Rolling Thunder and the Ride to the wall. There are many Master Masons in the parade of motorcycles as we head towards Washington D.C. The great anticipation of fellow veterans gathering, I can’t help but think about the significance of the “Ride To The Wall” by Rolling Thunder and what it means to them, and this Nation.

President Harry Truman, a Brother Master Mason and Past Master of his Lodge said: “Our debt to the heroic men and women in the service of our Country can never be repaid. They have earned our undying gratitude. America will never forget their sacrifice.”

The “Ride to the Wall” is so much a part of remembering and honoring those men and women. And a very special commendation to the Brethren of Hay Market Lodge for opening their doors in support of this great endeavor and participating in the Ride To The Wall, You my brethren are indeed “A Real Touch of Class”.

Now more than ever we need to stand up for the troops. We must promise to today's defenders of freedom; no matter where they serve; that we as Americans will never allow our country, or the media to create another generation of Vietnam veterans.

We must send a clear message that each and every person in uniform will be welcomed home the day they return to these United States of America soil and they not have doubt how their Country feels about them.

How sweet it is and how grateful I am that I can still stand up and be counted, and how proud I am that I served as a First Sergeant in the United States Army Paratroopers.

When a parade marched by and I saw Old Glory flying in the breeze I got a cold chill up my spin and a tear on my cheek and when I pledge allegiance to the flag of the United States of America I really get chocked up knowing that I am part of this great country.

I am also so very proud that I am a Master Mason and that I served our great Fraternity as Grand Master and now being a Past Grand Master and still riding my Harley to Washington D.C. to be a part of Rolling Thunder and “Ride To The Wall” I am also blessed that I can visit the Wall and pay my respects on behalf of all Master Masons in Virginia.

I leave you with this my Brethren; Don’t walk in front of me I May not follow, don’t walk behind me “I May Not Lead, Just Walk Beside Me and Be My Friend.

    “God Bless America”      John R. “Bob” Dean     “God Bless Freemasonry”
Grandmaster 1992
“Rolling Thunder & Ride To The Wall”