Since leaving the United States Navy (submarine service) I have looked for an organization that could give me an opportunity to share common interests with likeminded individuals. For the last 10 years I have participated in the Rolling Thunder event in Washington DC and have been interested in joining the Nam Knights. Last year in early August I reached out to the members of Old Dominion Chapter and decided to become a “Hang Around”. Since then I have come to know the members and believe I could add value to their Motorcycle Club. I have come to appreciate both the Nam Knight customs and values and believe I share the values and I try to emulate them on a daily basis. I have always believed in honesty, integrity, sincerity, loyalty, respect and honor. Additionally, a good sense of humor. I have come to find these values emulated in the chapter by the Patches.
I am humbled and honored to be a prospect and continue to learn more about the customs and values as I move through the process of prospecting. As a prospect I have enjoyed and continue to appreciate both the Patches’ willingness to share knowledge and their adherence to “you get respect if you give respect”. Patches have given up their time to help me continue to learn more and have allowed me opportunities to get to know them better on a personal level. It truly has been an enjoyable time prospecting since it has offered me an opportunity to share time with veterans and law enforcement officers while enjoying our similar interest of riding motorcycles.
As a prospect I have had several memorable moments to include participation in charity events like the coin drops, to attending events that honor the Vietnam veterans to spending time with members at the American Legion and becoming a member of the Legion. Some of the most memorable moments include watching for the first time the Nam Knights singing “Sweet Caroline”, riding in groups to various places in Virginia to finally the VP winning Queen of Hearts!
Personally, being a part of Nam Knights has added an additional dimension to my life. I now have an opportunity to share in a group that aspires to being brothers, who are willing to help each other if needed. I am proud to be a part of this organization because of what it stands for, whether that be helping veterans in need, honoring the Vietnam Veteran and\or recognizing and remembering prisoners of war and those that are missing in action. Lastly, it is nice to be part of a group that are like minded that have severed their country, who share a passion for motor cycling.
