CONCORD, N.H. — A carved American flag that serves as a reminder of one of the worst crashes in the state’s history will soon hang on the wall of a state building in Concord.
The flag was presented by the Ride for the Fallen 7 Foundation, a group that organized a ride in honor of seven motorcyclists who were killed in June 2019 in Randolph.
Carved into the flag are the Marine Corps emblem and the words “Never forget,” along with the names of those who died. After the crash, a motorcycle ride in honor of the victims was put together quickly, something organizers said would have been impossible without state employees.
“I was just thinking how thankful I was to give back to these people who did so much to help us out and plan the ride,” said Brian Desimone, president of the foundation.
The presentation took place inside the Incident Planning and Operations Center, where meetings were held to organize the ride.
“Trust me when I tell you this was a tough incident for all the police, fire, EMS, family members, not only the Marines, but we become stronger for it,” said Department of Safety Commissioner Robert Quinn.
“We thank you for this recognition,” said Transportation Commissioner Victoria Sheehan. “We will continue to partner as we look to the future and make sure that no one forgets what happened in Randolph.”
Among those at the presentation were several members of the Jarhead Motorcycle Club who were involved in the crash.
“Just kind of reliving the crash a little bit, some pictures kind of come back to me, and also there were some happy tears, as well, because the state of New Hampshire hasn’t forgotten,” said Dawn Brindley, of the Jarhead Motorcycle Club.
Bob Wagner, president of the club, said he’s still amazed when he thinks back to the ride.
“It’s been awe-inspiring for that ride that they did. It was just unbelievable,” he said. “It poured rain on them; it didn’t deter them at all. It was awesome.”
Another ride is planned for July. The proceeds will once again benefit survivors of the crash and family members of those who died.
Officials said they are considering putting the carved flag in the lobby of the Incident Planning and Operations Center so it can be seen by as many people as possible.
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Source: WMUR