Out of the subdivision and onto Boyds Creek Highway to Chapman (U.S. 441) heading for Sevierville, TN. It was very little traffic this early so I just kicked her up a notch and cruised into Sevierville. Right turned at the junction of TN 66, rode a block and left turned into the courthouse area where the ceremonies and ride would begin. There was already half a dozen bikes parked up front already. I like getting there early and up front but by the time the host and his friends, the flag bearers and a few others pull ahead, I'm about No. 35 from the front. But still better than being in the middle or back.
Now I wasn't great in math but my calculations makes it come out to approximately $37, 500,000 worth of bikes, not counting all the leather and riding outfits. Why there must have been two tons of chains, some that could be used for tying down a load of logs, walking around.
Some opening ceremonies were conducted and then my favorite guest was shown, Mr. Lincoln, a great bald eagle that had been rehabilitated at the Eagle Rehab Center, but when turned back into the wilds, kept coming back to the Center. So they just keep him there now and show him to the school kids and other people interested in animal rehabilitation.
Memorial Day is not for a three day weekend but for honoring those that died defending our country. It was a great day, overcast, not too hot, and with a somber feeling at times as most men and women there had lost family, loved ones or friends.
After the ceremonies was over, it was time to head for the bikes and saddle up for the 65 mile ride from Sevierville to the top of Clinch Mountain where the Veterans Monument Overlook is located. At the overlook a placing of a wreath takes place and a 21 gun salute along with the folding of the flag with each of the thirteen steps read as to their meaning.
This is a police escorted ride with law enforcement from several counties and several towns along the route working together to block off roadways. The ride starts rolling and doesn't stop until we reach the overlook. People pull over onto the sides of the highways, set their lawn chairs along the route and in their yards waving their flags and showing banners honoring the cause. Really touches your heart and makes you have a little more faith in your fellowman.
Along the route a fire truck had a suspended American Flag over the lane the bikes were riding in. We rode staggered in a single lane and stretched 8 miles. At the overlook the bikes were packed into the parking lot and along the sides of the highway near the entrance area. To the left is a bike passing in front of the Color Guard at the overlook. 
After the ceremonies were over I waited until a hole opened up to get out of the parking lot and headed up the hill to a little restaurant which I call the Vinegar Pie Place. It is known around the area for a vinegar pie which tastes a lot like a lemon pie, rather tart. They do make a really good hamburger. After chowing down I took off on an alternate route back to the house. The highway, U.S.25E is a great road with nice scenery.
West slope of Clinch Mountain. A Tennessee Rock Farm.
Scenes along the route back to Seymour.
The clouds got heavier and i rode a little faster trying to beat the rain. The scenery was nice as I passed a couple of rock farms, a few fixer-uppers, and rode through some small villages. Just as I got back into Knoxville, I got caught by the rain and wouldn't have gotten wet except a signal light caught me. A few minutes later I was out of the rain and stopping to gas up the bike. Arrived at the house around 4:30 p.m.
All total, 152 miles and a good time with a lot of "Old Military Folks". How was your Memorial Day Weekend?
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