By 10:00 a.m. on Sunday, May 25, 2003 the courthouse area of Sevierville looked like a bikers rally. Motorcycle riders from several counties came out to honor veterans during the 3rd Annual Smoky Mountain Thunder Memorial Ride. The unofficial count was 264 bikes that caravanned from Sevierville to Grainger County to the Overlook Memorial. At the courthouse local performer Kelly Stout sang the National Anthem and
Jerry Cole, a U.S. Navy veteran who served during the Vietnam War was a speaker. Also in attendance was last year’s speaker Pete Hailey, U.S. Navy Commander retired from WWII and the Korean War to place the wreath at the Veterans Memorial in front of the courthouse and celebrate his 82nd birthday. “America” the eagle from the Eagle Foundation was in the best of form during the celebration.
The group then headed out down Highway 411, through Newport, and into Grainger County for the closing ceremony, which included a talk by Shiloh Riders President Ron Geddis, singing by Madison Minor and a reading of “American Pride” by Dona Moore and a friend.
After taps was played by Sgt. Patricia Bivens, 572 Air Force Band, McGhee Tyson A.F.B., and a 21 Gun Salute was held, a wreath was placed at the memorial.
It was a great day for the ride and law enforcement agencies from various counties escorted the riders along the way.
“We are holding this ride to honor the brave men and women work to keep us free. It’s our time to remember them. It’s because of them that we are able to ride today – they have guaranteed our freedom by their sacrifice,” stated Geddis.

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