Rolling Thunder Chapter 4 has been at the D-Day Plus observations in Muskegon now since D-Day Plus 72. It's an event that has not only grown in size, but it's also grown in stature and importance of the message it carries and it shows. This year, the event has expanded in to two days down at the LST 393 which has a D-Day story all of it's own. If you're not familiar with Rolling Thunder, they are an organization who advocate for POW/MIA and Veterans of all branches of the military. They work to make sure that no soldier is forgotten and that people understand the sacrifices made to help protect our great nation.
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D-Day Plus 75 is set for this weekend. You'll find a variety of activity going on. Static displays of historic vehicles, free tours of the LST 393, the Michigan Vietnam Memorial Wall, battle re-enactments, an air raid simulation, and a 1940's pin up girl contest and a swing dance. You'll get to hear from a wonderful young speaker who at 11 has been recognized for her efforts to help POW/MIA and Veterans. There will be activities for the kids, there will be food vendors on hand and in as much as this might feel like a festival, it's an important part of history and it's a living breathing hands on learning experience for those who have only seen what war is on tv or in a movie.
Chris "Lefty" Johnson invited us back down again to talk about the event and what you'll find. Take a minute and listen to what's to come and then plan on spending some time on site this weekend to get the full experience.
It's a very full day with a lot to see and do, that's for sure. As we mentioned though, while it feels like it's a party....the idea is to recognize the sacrifices made of those who served on D-Day or any battle. Those who don't understand history are doomed to repeat it and to have the assets we do in Muskegon to make this kind of observance possible. Add in a group like Rolling Thunder Chapter 4 who work tireless hours to make this event bigger, better and have a greater impact and we have so much to be proud of. Thanks to Lefty for having us down and if you'd like to know more about Rolling Thunder, click on the image below to visit their website.