First Rolling Thunder Rally

Item

Item sets
Mall Histories
Washington
Title
First Rolling Thunder Rally
Date
05/30/1988
Description
The first Run to the Wall event, now known as Rolling Thunder, was held on Memorial Day in 1988. The rally was organized by Vietnam veteran Ray Manzo who wanted to bring national attention to the plight of prisoners of war and soldiers missing in action in Southeast Asia. Working together with the Vietnam Veterans Motorcycle Club, Manzo encouraged many veterans and supporters to ride into Washington and gather on the Mall. Approximately 2,500 bikers participated in the first rally. Rolling Thunder continued to grow and now occurs every Memorial Day weekend.
Coverage
1980-1999
Event Type
Marches and Rallies
Source
Cristiano Del Riccio. View original.