Marine 'Chopper' Storms into New Orleans

NEW ORLEANS (Jan. 15, 2008) Lawrence Tremblay, center, stands with Marines from the 3rd Battalion, 23rd Marine Regiment, 4th Marine Division to honor those who have fallen in the line of duty. U.S. Navy photo by Aviation Structural Mechanic 3rd Class Sundae A. Lewis (Released)

On the Home Front:

NEW ORLEANS, Jan. 17, 2008 (NNS) -- Jet noise gave way to the roar of a motorcycle engine Jan. 15 during a visit by the Marine Bike Tribute-Memorial held on board Naval Air Station, Joint Reserve Base, New Orleans.

Larry Tremblay, the father of fallen Marine Cpl. Joseph Tremblay not only built the bike as a tribute to his son, but to all those service members lost during the ongoing global war on terrorism.

The Marine Bike has images of Tremblay and three other Marines that were killed in action with his son. It also features numerous Marine Corps paraphernalia, most noticeably the sword issued to all Marine non-commissioned officers.

Tremblay was saddened by the loss of his son but has tried to turn this event into something positive by building this bike.

"I want everyone to be reminded that these soldiers are fighting for a reason and doing great things in Iraq," said Tremblay. "When people see this bike, Joey and all of the other fallen soldiers will be remembered."

Tremblay remembered watching people build motorcycles throughout his childhood. This inspired him to build the bike to his son as a tribute. He now owns Crossroads Custom Rides, the second largest bike shop in Orange County, New Jersey.

"This is awesome," said Mass Communication Specialist 1st Class (AW) William Townsend. "It's always saddening for a fellow service member to die, but to know how he lived is special. I give him respect by visiting this memorial."

Tremblay, gives advice to all who visit: "Be proud and never give up on yourself, just keep moving forward."

Tremblay funds the tours himself, selling merchandise at rallies. All proceeds from the merchandise he sells goes to a scholarship named after his son.

(Story by Mass Communication Specialist 1st Class (AW/SW) Shawn D. Graham, Naval Air Station Joint Reserve Base New Orleans Public Affairs.)

Related: 'American Chopper' TV Program to Feature National Guard’s 'Patriot Chopper'

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