Thousands come from all over around the world to observe Rolling Thunder during Memorial Day weekend in Washington DC. It’s the time when Rolling Thunder brings awareness to Prisoners of War (POW) and to those still Missing in Action (MIA). They roll in mass formation through the Capitol’s streets on their motorcycles as a tribute to those who have served our country. While thousands of people line the streets and thousands of motorcycles roar from the Pentagon through DC; there is a sole Marine who stands at attention every year in the middle of the street, Staff Sergeant Tim Chambers. Chambers’ impulsive march into the middle of the street more than ten years ago to honor thousands of veterans riding in Rolling Thunder was the beginning of a commitment he has now made year after year. A salute, which he holds until the last rider passes, is his way of displaying his admiration, respect and reverence for our men and women in uniform.
Tim was once asked, “why the salute, why the whole time?” His answer was astute, "It's about the pain. A lot of these heroic guys still hurt and if I can relieve their pain for one brief moment, then I've done my job. A salute is known to everyone, he added. We salute our president, dignitaries, flags, our dead and it is a national sign of respect to those who have sacrificed and served.” - Staff Sergeant Tim Chambers joined the Marines after high school in 1994.
Tim lived in DC for a while. He would go to the area where Rolling Thunder would be in dress uniform and shake hands of veterans thanking them for their service. He said he was trying to figure out a way he could reach all of them at once, so he jumped in the middle of the street and rendered a salute. There he stood for over 4 hours without a flinch! Chamber’s said his determination to thank each and every veteran and the events of Sept. 11, 2001 are what drove him to this street over tenyears ago and is what keeps him coming back today.
The Marine now stands, proudly the day of Rolling Thunder’s return, saluting, wearing his dress uniform, medals polished and shimmering in the sun. He stands majestically like a lion, ever vigilant, regardless of the weather extremes; a true testament to the stamina, the resilience, and the self-sacrifice of this steadfast Marine. Veteran after veteran rides by and salutes the Marine back. Despite numerous health challenges, Chambers hasn't missed a Rolling Thunder since he started, becoming a legend who is recognized by millions.
While Tim Chambers' annual salute, which lasts three to four hours, is a feat in itself, a serious medical condition has made the last three years especially challenging for him. After surgery in 2005, he contracted a serious bacterial infection caused by (MRSA). In Chambers' case, the bacteria invaded his back muscles and causes flare-ups that require intense therapy and can leave him bedridden for months at a time.
The recurring illness contributed to Chambers' decision to leave the Marines in 2009.
For the last three years, Chambers has suffered flare-ups just prior to Rolling Thunder. In 2011 he was hospitalized for several months before the Memorial Day weekend. Added to that, Chambers also had a broken right wrist.
He said the first hour is always hell but even though he clearly struggles and sweats in the heat and in pain, he held his salute until the last bike passed.
Tim hails from a military family, his father served as a Marine in Vietnam and his grandfather served in the Coast Guard during World War II.
As memorial day approaches please remember the purpose of the day...to remember those that have fought and served this great nation. And remember those who have made the ultimate sacrifice.
