In 2002, Staff Sergeant Tim Chambers stepped into the road and “popped up a salute” to show appreciation for the many veterans riding their motorcycles during the Memorial Day Rolling Thunder event.
Since then, this man – known as “The Saluting Marine” – has become a key part of the yearly parade in Washington, DC, holding an intense salute for hours to honor those who have fallen.
Many people are moved by Chambers’ dedication to service; they express their thanks with tears, hugs or salutes. In 2012, one female soldier parked her blue Sportster next to The Saluting Marine and what she did next touched hearts around the globe.
Staff Sergeant Tim Chambers clicked his heels together, aligned his fist with his pants seam and snapped his right hand into a strong salute that lined up perfectly with his forehead.
He stood there for as long as five hours saluting thousands of veterans on their motorcycles outside of the Pentagon during the Memorial Day Rolling Thunder parade.
Chambers became known as The Saluting Marine in 2002 when he jumped into the road to greet veterans at this event. “I just jumped out there while it was happening and popped up a salute. Then I thought about it: ‘Can I make it until it’s over? If I fall out will I look like an idiot?’” Chambers said about his first time doing such a tough hours-long salute.
The veteran joined Marines in 1994 and adds, “I just got caught up in that moment.”
Rolling Thunder began in 1988 to raise awareness about prisoners of war (POWs) and those missing in action (MIA), attracting thousands of veteran bikers from all over America. Sadly, it ended in 2019 but Chambers left an everlasting impression on everyone who witnessed his dedication.
He refused to give up despite heat or back issues while keeping steady until it was done. One year he even held his salute with a broken wrist which he wouldn’t cast until after serving.
Some veterans noticed him struggling and offered Aspirin and water showing support.
“I do this for pain,” he explained. “It’s all about pain. Many guys still hurt so if I can ease their pain through mine even just for one moment then I’ve done my job.”
Moved by his commitment hundreds of emotional veterans stop along the route; some kneel down while others give him hugs or salutes – all showing gratitude.
Each time Chambers replied saying “No, my pleasure! Thank you.”
One year a young boy stepped onto the median dropping down on knees before Chambers.
Sharing this moment on Facebook he wrote: “Prayers are private but he showed courage walking out before millions practicing faith so I had to kneel down with him.”
And then in 2012 an unknown female soldier stopped her baby blue Harley Davidson Sportster stepping forward toward a battlefield cross memorial made from combat boots & rifle topped by helmet.
After saluting both Chambers & fallen soldiers she placed red rose at memorial causing cheers from parade goers!
This clip has been seen by over 6 million people since being posted on YouTube capturing hearts praising her patriotism!
“That woman made me proud because I’ve lost two brothers,” wrote one user online while another shared: “She made me cry! So proud! God bless our fallen warriors & God bless America.”
A retired sniper commented: “It was heartwarming seeing that woman get off her bike returning salute! Even more knowing civilians watching admired,” adding “To all who’ve served proudly - I salute you! And those who respect us know we stand ready defending what’s dear.”
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