By Genevieve Judge, Local News 8 Reporter
POCATELLO - The POW-MIA organization is kicking off its 9th Annual Awareness Rally at the Bannock County Fairgrounds. Local people began getting ready Thursday with events including showing off the Patriot Chopper.
Scott Hongell served five years as a Marine and is from Maryland. He's back in Pocatello for the annual POW-MIA Awareness Rally.
"It's kind of close to me. Its kind of dear to me," said Hongell.
This will be the 9th year the rally has been in eastern Idaho. It started in 2000 in American Falls and then moved to the Gate City. The event is all in an effort to keep people aware of the sacrifices for freedom.
"In our communities there are Americans that never came home from previous conflicts. And it's important for us as Americans to always remember them and never forget their sacrifices," said Roy "Redleg" Breshears, Assistant Director for the POW-MIA.
Thursday the Patriot Guard Chopper was on hand at Pocatello Cycle for people to check out along with an ice cream social later in the evening at the Bannock County Fairgrounds. But the weekend will bring much more.
"Friday evening we've got MMA fights. Saturday we've got the demolition derby. Our premier event, which is the motorcycle rodeo. If you've never seen one of those, it's a hoot," said Breshears.
There will be a fun motorcycle run Saturday morning and events at the fairgrounds through the weekend. Scott is part of the group Monrovia and they'll be playing in concert Friday and Saturday. Being a veteran and a musician, he's hoping he can bring both of his loves together.
"Last year was so awesome, it was so good. So we just want to rock it out and meet as many people as we can," said Hongell.
To enjoy the 9th annual POW-MIA Awareness Rally, you don't have to be in the military or own a motorcycle you just have to love your country and show your support for it.
A family pass for the weekend is $40 dollars. Admission is $15 for anyone over 12 years old. Ages six to 12 is $5 and five and under or with a military ID is free.
Gates open Friday morning at 9 a.m. and the largest POW-MIA flag in the world will be raised at 12 p.m.
For more information, go to www.powmiarodeo.org
