By MEGHAN DURBAK
Despite the controversy surrounding the war in Iraq, more than 900 motorcyclists came to Darrough Chapel Park Sunday to show their support for U.S. troops — many of whom are currently serving in Iraq and Afghanistan.
More people came to the fifth annual Ride for the Troops than had come in the previous four years combined. The ride is not for profit or commercialization, said co-founder Tom Badham.
“Our ride isn’t about whether you support the war or not,” he said. “The only reason was to show patriotism and support for the troops — past and present — who fight for our freedom.”
Starting in Darrough Chapel Park, the bikers rode 75 miles through central Indiana, stopping at Tipton Park to pick up a few additional bikers. They headed east to Elwood and north along Ind. 37 before turning west U.S. 35 through Greentown to return to the park.
“This is even bigger than expected,” Badham said.
Indiana National Guard Staff Sgt. Rodney Walker said he was grateful for the overwhelming support.
Walker supports the conflict in Iraq.
“I feel we should be there because we are there for a reason. We’re there to make an impression and are doing a job over there,” the Iraq veteran said.
Kokomo resident Jewel Perkins disagreed.
“It’s another Vietnam,” he said.
Despite his views on the war, Perkins jumped on his bike to show his support for the troops.
“I support the troops for taking care of our country. I don’t support the president for keeping young men and women over there for a war that will never be won,” he said.
Many riders had one more reason to come Sunday. Some of them came to honor Army Pfc. David Neil Simmons who was laid to rest Saturday. Simmons was killed just outside of Baghdad, Iraq, on April 8.
Joining the riders, was his father, David Simmons. Only a few minutes prior to the ride, Simmons spoke about his son in a poem.
“God gave me a great treasure of immense and untold worth when he sent a touch of heaven to my lifetime here on Earth,” he said of his son.
Following Simmons’ speech, Pastor Will Mills of Horizon Church, shared a few words on the fallen soldier and then asked for a blessing of all troops and bikers.
With those words, the 900-plus group took off with flags on their bikes and smiles to begin their 75- mile roundtrip journey.
Badham said the event was a success.
“A lot of people are tired of the war and look how many people came,” he said.
