Tim Chambers holds his salute for up to four hours as bikes parade past him. (Photo Christopher Kamsler)Chambers learned about discipline and hard work on his grandfather's 500-acre strawberry farm in Oregon
Tim Chambers admits to an "overabundance of enthusiasm." In his 15-year Marine Corps career, that enthusiasm served him well, leading to his series of Forrest Gump–like experiences. "You can get anywhere with enthusiasm," said Chambers. Like onto the median of Washington's 23rd Street in Marine dress blues during Rolling Thunder in 2002, snapping a salute to the bikers rolling by. Despite myriad challenges, Chambers hasn't missed a Rolling Thunder since, becoming somewhat of a legend who is recognized by millions.
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The eldest of six children, Chambers learned about discipline and hard work on his grandfather's 500-acre strawberry farm in Silverton, Ore. "My grampa showed me how to be courteous, treat all people with respect and use common sense," Chambers said. "And because he always kept his hoe close to my behind, it made the Marine Corps seem easy."
Chambers joined the Marines after high school in 1994. From Parris Island on, he credits his energy and enthusiasm with helping him land many interesting jobs, including protocol chief to a general stationed in Japan and assistant to the chief defense counsel for the Marines in Washington.
Sergeant Chambers was also an ardent volunteer for organizations such as Special Olympics and the Muscular Dsytrophy Association. While stationed in Washington from 2000 to 2003, he participated in the World War II Memorial groundbreaking ceremony and the Korean War Commemoration Committee's ceremonies for veterans who never received their medals. In 2003 Chambers' volunteer work earned him recognition as one of five "Very Important Patriots" by the National Military Family Association—and because of that, his face appeared on the Kellogg's Frosted Flakes cereal box.
On September 11, 2001, however, his energy and enthusiasm took a more dramatic turn in Washington. When the Pentagon was hit, he raced to the scene with other Marines and helped in the rescue efforts, entering the building to look for survivors and bodies. Two months later, Chambers and 10 other Marines were awarded the Navy and Marine Corps Commendation Medal. "The whole ordeal reminded me of why the Marine Corps exists," said Chambers. "We are trained to react. It was a gut check and helped me decide to reenlist." For his heroics, he was invited to the 2002 Rose Bowl parade to ride on a float with other 9/11 first responders.
Chambers first became aware of Rolling Thunder while he was stationed in Washington, and in 2002 the Marine decided to don his dress uniform and spend the day thanking veterans. But he didn't think that was enough. He'd attended many funerals on behalf of the Marines, but felt giving a salute at a vet's funeral was really too late. "That was it," he said of his impulsive gesture. "I just jumped out there as the parade was happening and popped up a salute. Then I started thinking, 'Can I make it to the end? If I fall out will I look like a complete idiot?'"
"I just got caught up in the moment," he said, not thinking it would be more than just a one-time thing. The next year, though, Chambers began his salute at the very beginning of the motorcycle run and held it to the end.
Transferred to California in 2004, Chambers said his run might have ended then. Soon, though, he received validation of his Rolling Thunder salute in the form of a letter from Marine Commandant General Michael Hagee, who wrote about the letters he'd received praising Chambers' action and congratulating him "for serving as a superb representative of our Marine Corps."
"I was just floored," Chambers said—and he felt determined to get back the next year. He arranged to take leave to get to Rolling Thunder each year after that, and he has even taken his mother and grandmother with him a few times. Three times he's accompanied riders from the Run for the Wall or Carry the Flame groups.
By 2008 the Marine sergeant had become a Rolling Thunder fixture. That year, after giving the salute, Chambers got a call from an aide to President George W. Bush. He told Chambers the president had seen him that day, was very impressed, and invited him to a Memorial Day breakfast at the White House the next morning. Chambers took his grandmother along, and they met the family of Army Staff Sgt. Matt Maupin, who had been a POW in Iraq and whose remains had just been recently returned. Chambers recalled the Marine Commandant General James Conway's reaction to seeing him: "He came up to me and said, 'What are you doing here, Marine? Who invited you?' I said, 'The president did, sir!' That was fun."
Chambers at 2011 Rolling Thunder. (Photo: Christopher Kamsler)While Tim Chambers' annual salute, which lasts three to four hours, is a feat in itself, a serious medical condition has made the last three years especially challenging for him. After surgery in 2005, he contracted a serious bacterial infection caused by Methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus (MRSA). In Chambers' case, the bacteria invaded his back muscles and causes flare-ups that require intense therapy and can leave him bedridden for months at a time.
The recurring illness contributed to Chambers' decision to leave the Marines in 2009. "The Marine Corps has been my whole life since high school," he said, "but I knew I could no longer serve. I miss it a lot."
For the last three years, Chambers has suffered flare-ups just prior to Rolling Thunder. In 2011 he was hospitalized for several months before the Memorial Day weekend. Added to that, Chambers also had a broken right wrist.
"The first hour is always hell and I have to fight mentally to keep from falling out," he said. "Over the years, it hasn't gotten easier. I really thought I was going to fall out last year." But even though he was clearly struggling, Chambers held his salute until the last bike passed.
"I'll be in better shape this year," Chambers said in March, noting that the MRSA infection had not returned. "The biggest concern I have is fitting into my uniform," he said. "I'm 36 now and have been so sick the past few years that I haven't had much opportunity to work out. But, really it's more of a mental thing. I'm always thinking, 'If I drop my salute, can I find a rock I can crawl under?'"
What mostly runs through Chambers' mind during the salute are thoughts about what he is representing and who he is reaching. "Service members truly have compassion and love for each other," he said. "The country needs to see this, and Rolling Thunder brings it to life. I feel the need to thank them for doing it."
"I'm floored any time I hear that I've touched someone," said Chambers. "Whenever a mother says I remind them of a son who died—be it in Desert Storm, Iraq, Afghanistan or even Vietnam—it completely blows me away. And when they tell me their stories, I will then tell them to others. Mission accomplished."
And it's not just a one-way experience for Chambers, who never served in combat. "When the vets stop and salute me, or when active duty soldiers and Marines get off their bikes, it validates me—even though they see what's not on my chest," he said. "As long as I am honoring and emulating them and helping people to remember their service and sacrifice, I hope that I will be accepted."
While Tim Chambers admitted to having a few mental tricks to sustain him through the salute, he said he's found something else that gets him through it. "It's amazing," he said. "When the bikes come right by me, the vibrations of the engines run through my body, and it takes away the pain in my arm. I especially love it when they rev up their engines and look me right in the eye and say, 'Looking good, Tim!' It means so much to be remembered and respected. There's nothing better than that."
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Thank you Sgt Chambers,you can tell you were raise to respect others & treat others the way you want them to treat you.I like to Thank You for the time you serve in the Marines to help keep our Country safe.It's people like you that makes me say I'm glad to be an American.Thank you again and may God Bless you & your family.
pattyshifflett57@yahoo.com
You said it so perfectly Patty.
I watched Rolling Thunder a few years back, it was the first time, I saw it, and watched Sgt. Chambers standing there for 3 hrs so proud. tears came to my eyes, to see this man standing giving respect to his fellow commrads., I was listening to what the commentator was saying and I began to pray for him and those who rode and served this country. GOD BLESS YOU ALL, AND TO YOUR FAMILIES, for they also serve. It makes me PROUD TO BE AN AMERICAN. GOD BLESS AMERICA.
Hi! Sgt Chambers, it your brother at arms from north of the Border, member of the Veterans UN Nato Canada. Question I'm I wrong to but I heard rumors that you would be at our version of Rolling Thunder II. "To never forget who we are".
First time i went to the wall in 09. At that time i didnt know much about Rolling Thunder. But now im a member. I want to meet Tim
I have been inspired by this American Hero for many years when I ride in Rolling Thunder.
Thank You Sergeant Chambers, I'm looking forward to saluting you this year!!!
We have been priviledged to be able to ride in the Run for the Wall – Rolling Thunder group and what a sight to see but this dedicated Marine saluting us all a rode by him. God Bless him ! We have also been inspired by Sergeant Chambers – looking forward to another ride and a salute. Thank you.
Semper Fidelis!
Sgt Jim Judson,
US Army VietNam Vet
MOPH wounded 30Mar68
Thank you Sgt Chambers, I rode to the wall in 2011,, stopped my bike and rendered my salute to you, for all the VN Vets unable too.
Bless you my brother
That is so awesome, especially when Vets feel like they've been washed to the side & forgotten for their contribution for the freedom of all!
This old Navy corpsman looks forward to saluting you again this year. Thank you for your dedication and service to this wonderful country.
You don't have to have medals on you chest to be a respected MARINE. If there is a address where i could send a coin for you please let me know. You are a true AMERICAN GOD BLESS YOU SON.
Sgt. Chambers I was asked how does a man hold a salute that long. My answer was it comes natural for a UNITED STATES MARINE. Semper Fi Brother! You are making all veterans proud. May God give you the strength to continue. Once a Marine always a Marine!
I have not been to "Rolling Thunder" But one of our friends came back and told us about his experience riding in this awesome tribute. The one thing that I remembered was about this Marine standing there the entire time from the first bike to the last. For me that was what I remember the most. Now I thought it was the Marines that required a soldier to stand at attention. I hadn't realized it was the actions of one man. Outstanding
I'm with Rolling Thunder Tn. 6 ive only seen pics. Of this fine Marine. SEMPER FI
Sgt. Chambers, as a person who has had a family member serve in the Armed Forces in almost every war, I'd like to say Thank you to a man who inspires so many of us to be proud to be American's. I work when Rolling Thunder happens and am unable to get to Washington to salute each of you who have kept our country safe. I will keep you and all of our other Military men and women in my prayers as I always have. Thank you for keeping us safe.
THANK you Sgt. chambers. I've ridden my bike in Rolling Thunder several times and it is awesome to see you standing there saluting. I have had a family member in every branch of the armed services. My son has just returned from Afghanistan. Thank you for honoring all of them! SEMPER FI
Thank you Sgt. Chambers for all you have done and continue to do. This was my first Rolling Thunder. I was so taken by the pride this country has and the dedication to each other. Thank you once again for standing there and honoring those who serve/served.
God Bless you and The United States of America.
[...] Saga of the Saluting Marine Tim Chambers admits to an "overabundance of enthusiasm." In his 15-year Marine Corps career, that enthusiasm served him well, leading to his series of Forrest Gump–like experiences. "You can get anywhere with enthusiasm," said Chambers. Like onto the median of Washington's 23rd Street in Marine dress blues during Rolling Thunder in 2002, snapping a salute to the bikers rolling by. Despite myriad challenges, Chambers hasn't missed a Rolling Thunder since, becoming somewhat of a legend who is recognized by millions. [...]
the saying is once a Marine always a Marine, that is so true.I've been out of the Corps for many years and have ridden in many Rolling Thunders events at D.C.The first time I saw Sgt.Chambers I told myself that I had to met this Marine.5/28/2012 was the day that got to met him and I'll say this,he is one hell of a Marine and a man.Job well done Sgt. Chambers
Sgt. Chambers has added a new layer of tradition to an event already steeped in tradition. A silent tribute has NEVER spoken Louder. Thank you for your service and commitment. We have been going to Thunder since 2000 and will be there I hope, for many more years. We have seen it grow, seen the high security after 9/11 and the year of the dedication of the WW I I Memorial and Have witnessed the Sgt. at his chosen post. All this because some dedicated veterans wanted to salute their brethren and bring attention to the POW/MIA cause
I agree, Steve. Anyone who calls it "Happy" has obviously never been in our shoes, or even thought about it before
[...] of the most moving moments along the ride was seeing Tim Chambers standing in full salute knowing that by the time we passed him he had already been standing there [...]
I have ridden my bike in Rolling Thunder three times now….cry the whole way, and almost sob when I see you. Thank you so much for what you do and for what it means to all who see what you do.
We always knew you were and are someone special,Tim. We are very proud to call you, cousin! God bless you!!!
I was so touched by this photo and story, I wrote this poem in his honor.
I SALUTE THEE
Every year
At this time
I salute
These men of mine
As they roll
And thunder by
My right hand raised
To my eye
Does it hurt?
Is what they ask
In your honor
I accept this task
Thru the heat
The blazing sun
I stand here proud
For every last one
I cannot drop
My arm, My hand
I will not rest
I only stand
On iron horses
A steel cavalry
My eyes forward
I salute thee
http://www.sobnyc.wordpress.com
-Peace
that is beautiful
I am the Saluting Marine from Rolling Thunder.
I want to apologize upfront if this is not acceptable. I created a T-Shirt to honor all Veterans if you go to my website you can see it first hand. This will unite and honor Citizens of all walks of life.
Please visit my website http://www.leavenowarriorbehind.org
Job well done Marine. I have no doubt that you would always hold your salute because a Marine always will. Semper Fi
Thank you for all you do, and have done, Sgt. chambers. You will always have my respect and admiration. Bless you and your family.