The motorcycle rally honored the memory of fallen heroes

KANAWHA and CABELL, W.Va. (WSAZ) – At least 40 motorcyclists came out to honor and remember military members Thursday.

“When we talk about the Army, we all come together,” U.S. Sen. Joe Manchin, D-W.Va., said.

The ninth annual Fallen Service Heroes Run began at the West Virginia State Capitol and ended at the Veterans Memorial Arch in Huntington.

Once they reached Huntington, Senator Manchin and company presented the Gold Star families with $30,000 for the monument project.

“We’re a proud group of people now,” Dan Ferguson said. “The second project was difficult to implement. It was a $150,000 project. It’s beautiful. We’re getting a lot of good feedback and that’s kind of the icing on the cake.”

Eight years ago, Senator Manchin said he organized the event to honor West Virginia service members.

“We continue to give more and are ready to answer the call whenever our country asks us to, so I am very proud to be able to participate and continue to make sure that we never forget our fallen heroes,” Manchin said.

The mother of American Gold Star recipient Shirley White lost two sons to military service and says honoring them in this way will ensure they are never forgotten.

“It’s just wonderful,” White said. “It’s just the best feeling because you know your kids are not forgotten. It’s just an honor for them.”

Veteran Kim Wolfe, whose family and friends served in World Wars I and II, said the trip highlights their sacrifice.

“I think they really are the greatest generation today and even the veterans,” Wolfe said. “I think we need to respect what they do for our country.”

Officials say they hope to continue the mission next year.