Chapter 4 - PARADE OF THE RAVENS
A crisp brass horn signaled the official start of the Oakridge Community Parade. Down the length of Main Street, laughter, cheering, and applause erupted from hundreds of townspeople lining the sidewalks under the shade of patriotic banners.
The procession began moving down the asphalt. Leading the youth section were dozens of local kids riding their streamer-decorated bicycles, their parents waving proudly from the curb.
Driving right in the middle of the procession was Ben. His cherry-red vintage cruiser wheelchair glided down the center lane, its polished chrome accents catching the bright sunlight as he expertly steered through the parade route.
Riding at a walking pace directly alongside him was Duke, sitting atop his heavy black motorcycle. The low, deep rumble of Duke’s V-twin engine matched the steady pace of the children's parade, creating an escort of absolute security and pride for the young boy.
Duke turned his head down toward Ben, a proud grin visible beneath his silver mustache.
"You ready for this, kiddo?" Duke called out over the friendly cheers of the crowd.
Ben laughed out loud—a pure, triumphant sound of complete happiness—and looked up at his giant protector.
May you like
"I was ready before you!" Ben shot back, nudging his joystick forward to take the lead.
The crowd along the sidewalks cheered wildly as the tiny 1950s cruiser rolled past. Spectators clapped, took photos, and called out Ben’s name, celebrating the remarkable creativity and craftsmanship that had brought the young boy from the sidelines into the very heart of the town’s celebration.
