Bikers welcome American Veterans Traveling Wall

From Daytona International Speedway

DAYTONA BEACH, FL – The roar of motorcycle engines at Daytona International Speedway was silenced Saturday morning by the sounds of a 21-gun salute, Taps and the National Anthem during the American Veteran’s Traveling Wall and Tribute ceremony.

The ceremony began at 11 a.m. and featured a 21-gun salute by the VFW Post 3282 from Port Orange, a fly over and remarks by a host of distinguished speakers including Daytona Beach Mayor Glenn Ritchey, Volusia Chairman Frank Bruno, DIS President Robin Braig, State Representative Dorothy Hukill and Don Allen of the AVTT.

The American Veterans Traveling Tribute and Traveling Wall is a mobile memorial honouring those who served and gave their all to defend the United States of America. The mobility of the memorial provides people with the opportunity to pay their respects without having to travel great distances to do so.

“It’s great just to see the politicians come out and honor the veterans,” Michigan resident Fred Bandle said. “It’s really a great thing. We are always thankful for the civilians who come out and show their patriotism.”

Hundreds of veterans, motorcycle enthusiasts and local residents came out to witness the ceremony and pay their respects to all the American servicemen and women who gave the ultimate sacrifice for their country.

“I thought it was a good ceremony and showing,” motorcycle enthusiast Kevin Delong said.

Delong, who came to Daytona Beach for Daytona 200 Week By Honda and the wall ceremony, just returned from a six-month deployment to Afghanistan with the United States Air Force. 

“It’s nice to come back and see this, especially when you think about all the people over there still,” Delong said.

The American Veteran’s Traveling Wall and Tribute is located in Daytona International Speedway’s infield and will be on display throughout 2009 Daytona 200 Week by Honda. Free access to the display is available through the Turn 4 tunnel throughout Daytona 200 Week By Honda with the lone exception of Friday, March 6.