CVMA National 2002

The Combat Veterans Motorcycle Association National was held in Nashville Tennessee on the weekend of August 23, 24 and 25, 2002. Members arrived from many states at the Nashville KOA Campgrounds for a weekend of camaraderie and friendship. This weekend was picked to coincide with the VFW National meeting and in particular the Howard E. Vander Chute Memorial Motorcycle Run. The CVMA was the only group comprised totally of VFW members to participate in the run.

Friday brought members arriving from early afternoon until late night, arriving singularly or in small groups. Some renewing old friendships, many meeting for the first time. Other than a trip to a nearby restaurant Friday evening was spent at the campsite awaiting others arrival.

Saturday brought forth the main reason all of us had come together for. Saturday morning after some had gone for breakfast we gathered and got ready to head for the staging area of the run. After waiting for others at the staging area a ceremony was held at the World War II Memorial prior to the run. Then it was mount up for the run which ended at Ole Opryland followed by speakers and a cookout. After this it was back to the campground for our National meeting. After the meeting it was suggested by the ladies in attendance that they take up a collection, go shopping and have a cookout at the campground. To most this was a great idea with only a few venturing off in search of other food. The rest of the evening was spent enjoying good company.

With Sunday came the realization it was time for most to pack up and head for home, with a few staying on until Monday. Some by themselves and some in groups headed of towards home, looking forward to next year.

Please enjoy the photos on the following pages.
Click on the thumbnail for larger view.