The Medal of Honor is the United States of America’s highest military honor, awarded for personal acts of valor above and beyond the call of duty. The medal is awarded by the President of the United States in the name of Congress.
The Medal of Honor Host City Program was established in 2001 to provide residents with a more interactive connection with America’s history, the military and the veteran community.
Each year the Medal of Honor Recipients’ motorcade, escorted by North Texas Motorcycle Clubs and local law enforcement shut down all highways and interstates from DFW Airport to Gainesville, Texas, which is the host city.
Mayor Stanley rides in the event each year and this year he took downtown businessman Todd Creekmore with him. Creekmore owns Advantage Business Machines in the old Chisum building in downtown Howe
“It was almost a teary-eyed event.” said Creekmore. “Everytime you go under a bridge, everyone is waving and military guys are saluting as you go by. It’s a motorcycle ride, but it isn’t just a ride. It’s supporting the guys who gave their lives and those who made it back. It makes you feel proud.”
Creekmore said that there were 300 bikes, but if felt like 1,000. They were expecting 500 to 1,000, but the rain caused some to not show.
Creekmore, who has been riding motorcycles since the age of 13, said that he will be riding in this event every year.
His business, Advanced Business Machines, has been in Howe for nine years and handles copiers, printers and faxes. People stop by just to see the inside of the store.