Motorcycle brigade honors veterans at retirement center in south KC

By Kathy Feist

A gentle rumbling could be heard just outside The Madison Senior Living complex in south Kansas City. At least one resident questioned what it was as she hurriedly joined about 50 fellow residents eagerly waiting outside the building.

At 11 am, a group of ten motorcyclists headed up the hill and onto the grounds of The Madison, passing the memory center, and roaring one by under the awning of the independent and assisted living facility. In all, 16 members of the Combat Vets Motorcycle Brigade came to honor the center’s ten war veterans on Memorial Day. 

Among those residents was World War II veteran William Duffy, who also celebrated his 99th birthday the day before.  

Duffy received special recognition for his services and was honored with a birthday cupcake and candle.

The Presentation of Colors was provided by the Ruskin High School Junior ROTC cadets under the supervision of Colonel Ivan Glasco. After a Pledge of Allegiance recited by all in attendance, Glasco thanked all who gave a life of service to their country. 

“This is a day in our society where most of America thinks about barbecue,” he said.  “But Memorial Day is for remembering those who served but are no longer with us…. those who, whether they wanted to or not, gave.” 

He encouraged everyone to enjoy the barbecue, but keep service members in mind. “They are why we are here today,” he said. 

After his presentation, the Combat Vets and Junior ROTC cadets formed a line thanking each of the elder vets for their service to their country. 

This is the third or fourth appearance that the motorcycle brigade has celebrated a  military holiday with residents at The Madison.

Beau Johnson who heads the motorcycle brigade says each time there is a renewed connection among both groups of service members. 

“When we get out here and talk about having done some of the same things, been to the same places, it wakes them up. They start to communicate and tell stories,” he says. “Staff say, ‘We’ve never heard them talk that much!’ That makes you feel warm and fuzzy on the inside.”

After the ceremony, Resident Services Director Kelela Kiyona, who coordinated the event, invited everyone in for a barbecue lunch consisting of barbecued ribs, hamburgers, hot dogs, barbecue beans, potato salad and dessert.