ST. CLAIRSVILLE — More than 200 motorcyclists rumbled into St. Clairsville early Monday to commemorate Memorial Day, a national holiday honoring military members who made the ultimate sacrifice.

The riders were part of Run For The Wall, a group that rides across the country with a final stop in Illinois to visit the Middle East Conflicts Wall.

They stopped in front of the Belmont County Courthouse and participated in the Memorial Day event hosted by the St. Clairsville American Legion and Belmont County Tourism. The event included speeches and music by the St. Clairsville High School Marching Band and DJ Daner.

The Cumberland Trail Fire District used its ladder truck to suspend an American flag above the street for the riders to pass beneath.

Rider Leo “Clutch” Rachmel presented plaques of appreciation to the St. Clairsville Police Department, Belmont County Sheriff’s Department and the city of St. Clairsville.

Vince Gianangeli thanked the group for stopping in St. Clairsville and reminded attendees Memorial Day is a time to remember those who died while serving the country.

“Freedom is not free,” he said.

Guest speaker retired Army Col. Bill Mulvey of Barnesville said many people either do not know or have forgotten the meaning of the holiday. He noted companies often hold furniture and appliance sales while many people gather for picnics.

Mulvey said there is nothing wrong with celebrating the start of summer, but people also should take time to remember soldiers who died serving the nation. Even a brief prayer or moment of silence is meaningful, he said.

“It’s a time of reflection and to express gratitude,” he said.

Most of the riders wore motorcycle gear, including leather vests, pants and chaps. Their vests displayed colorful patches representing military service branches and nicknames.

After parking their motorcycles on Main Street, several riders walked through the crowd greeting residents and handing out pins commemorating their ride and the 35th anniversary of the Gulf War. Many shook hands with attendees and thanked them for participating in the service.

The group’s ride began in California with Washington, as the initial destination. The riders then continued from Washington to Illinois to visit the Middle East Conflicts Wall in Marseilles.