Department of Defense will not allow use of Pentagon parking lot.
For over 30 years, Memorial Day celebrations have included a “Rolling to Remember” motorcycle ride that honors American veterans, those missing in action, and those who are prisoners of war. The event is organized by AMVETS, a congressionally chartered veterans service organization representing the interests of 20 million veterans. It invites veterans and bikers to ride together throughout the nation’s capital.
This year, citing safety reasons due to the coronavirus epidemic, the Pentagon has denied a permit for the use of its parking lot for the rally riders. Organizers and congressional members alike are stunned by the Defense Department’s decision.
AMVETS, in association with Rolling Thunder, has traditionally used the Pentagon’s parking lots as a staging and gathering area, drawing hundreds of thousands of attendees. Without the permit, there may be no alternate place for the veterans to organize this year. The Rolling to Remember ride did occur in 2020.
As the Lord Leads, Pray with Us…
- For officials in the Defense Department as safety considerations are weighed against liberties and veteran memorials.
- For possible alternate venues for AMVETS and the Rolling to Remember rally.
- For wisdom for the president and his administration as they make policy regarding veterans affairs and memorials.
Sources: Washington Times, Washington Examiner
