KANAWHA and CABELL COUNTIES, W.Va. (WSAZ) – At least 40 motorcyclists rode to honor and remember soldiers on Thursday.

“When we talk about the military, we all come together,” said U.S. Sen. Joe Manchin, D-W.Va.

The 9th annual tour for Fallen Service Heroes began at the West Virginia State Capitol and ended at the Veterans Memorial Arch in Huntington.

Once in Huntington, Senator Manchin and his friends donated $30,000 for a memorial project to Gold Star families.

“We’re a proud bunch of people right now,” Dan Ferguson said. “The Moment project was a difficult thing to realize. It was a 150 thousand dollar project. This is good. “We’re getting great feedback and that’s the icing on the cake.”

Eight years ago, Senator Manchin said he organized this event to honor service men and women in West Virginia.

“We continue to be willing to give more and answer the call when our country asks us to do so, so I’m very proud to be able to get involved and continue to make sure we never forget the heroes who have fallen,” Manchin said.

American Gold Star mother Shirley White lost two sons in the military and said honoring them in this way ensures they will never be forgotten.

“This is really cool,” White said. “This is the best feeling because you know your children are not forgotten. “It’s just an honor for them.”

Kim Wolfe, a veteran whose family and friend served in World War I and World War II, said the trip shed light on their sacrifices.

“I really think they are the greatest generation and even veterans of today,” Wolfe said. “I think we should honor what he did for our country.”

Officials say they hope to continue the mission next year.

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