Hundreds of motorcyclists joined with Gary and Linda Fribley Saturday to remember the couple's son, Lance Cpl. David Fribley.
David Fribley, a former Atwood resident, was killed in March 2003 in a rocket-propelled grenade attack when Iraq troops failed to surrender. He was the first Hoosier to be killed while serving in Iraq.
The second annual Warsaw Young Tigers Mayor's Motorcycle Ride, sponsored by Lake City Honda/Kawasaki, Warsaw, drew 103 motorcyclists and $2,200 was raised for Young Tigers Football.
"It's great to see all of the motorcyclists come out to support all the soldiers who are serving or have served," Linda said.
Gary said his son would be in awe of the support.
"Young Tigers Football opens a door for young kids who might not have otherwise had a door of opportunity opened for them," Gary said.David's brother, Steven, who served three tours in the Iraq war, rode his motorcycle Saturday. He hung a Young Tigers Football jersey on the front of his motorcycle in memory of his brother.
"My brother's death doesn't get easier dealing with, but it is nice to see him remembered and to honor all of the soldiers who have fought," Steve said.
A Gold Star mother's vehicle carried Linda Fribley and Donna Snyder, North Webster, and dropped them off at Lake City Honda/Kawasaki, Warsaw.
Snyder's son, Staff Sgt. James P. Snyder, Nappanee, formerly of Syracuse, died May 10 from injuries he suffered while serving in Iraq.
"My son did what he needed to do to protect our country," Snyder said.
Snyder's sister, Neva O'Connor, North Webster, also attended the ride Saturday wearing a pin with a picture of her brother. She said her brother would have loved to be a part of the ride.
"He loved motorcycles and was a member of the legion in Syracuse," O'Connor said.
The motorcyclists Saturday wore black shirts with orange and white lettering that said "Ride, Reflect, Remember Lance Cpl. David Fribley."
Bob Morrison, North Webster American Legion Post 253 member and ride chairman, read names of the 55 Indiana soldiers missing in action or unaccounted for and veterans saluted and said, "Still Missing, Sir."
The ride began at Lake City Honda/Kawasaki with Young Tigers Football athletes waving flags, sending the motorcyclists down U.S. 30 and to Columbia City.
Motorcyclists rode through Warsaw, Pierceton, Larwill, Columbia City and Coesse.
Riders stopped at the Veterans Memorial on Oday Road past Columbia City and placed poppies at the Purple Heart section of the memorial.
American Legion Post 253 performed a ceremony with taps and a 21-gun salute.
Morrison said the ride went well.
"I was glad the motorcyclists had the opportunity to see the memorial because most of the riders had not seen it before," Morrison said.
