The Rolling Barrage – Our History
We are not makers of history. We are made by history.
~ Martin Luther King Jr.
It always seems impossible, until its done.
~ Nelson Mandela
If you can dream it, you can do it.
~ Walt Disney
Ultimately, leadership is not about glorious crowning acts. It’s about keeping your team focused on a goal and motivated to do their best to achieve it, especially when the stakes are high and the consequences really matter. It is about laying the groundwork for others’ success, and then standing back and letting them shine.
~ Chris Hadfield, Canadian Astronaut
In 2016, Scott Casey envisioned an annual cross-Canada motorcycle ride. The premise was to fight the stigma of PTSD and raise funds for programs or organizations that help CAF members, Veterans, and First Responders (both serving and retired) get treatment to live with the mental injuries they received from their service to Canada and their communities.
The initial ride in 2017 celebrated the 150th Birthday of our nation and also the 100th Anniversary of the Battle of Vimy Ridge, where the ride derives its namesake. Canadians developed the “creeping barrage” tactic for artillery fire. It was the crucial component of the Vimy success. It is said that Canada was born in that battle, as all 4 divisions fought and declared victory together, when all others had failed.
The sound of rumbling motorcycles crossing Canada signifies The Rolling Barrage’s memorial to those who have sacrificed for our nation.
After four rapidly developing years, Scott felt the pressure of this incredible event and realized it was time pass the mantle of leadership on. It was not an easy decision, by any means. It was the right one though; he was burning out and needed to shift his focus back to himself, his amazing family, and his other many projects.
In September 2020, Paul Harman (Harm) accepted Scott Casey’s offer to assume the top tier of leadership within The Rolling Barrage.
With the help of some truly talented folks, Harm re-organized TRB into a truly nationally organized event, with a top-down structure, while maintaining Scott’s original dream and grass-roots approach.
In April of 2021, the Board of Directors of Military Minds Inc (MMI) made a tough decision to dissolve the corporation.
In order to maintain the integrity of The Rolling Barrage due to the impact on the ridership, The Rolling Barrage PTSD Foundation was quickly created to carry on the efforts and alignment for the sake of this worthwhile fundraising event.
The Rolling Barrage PTSD Foundation experienced developing growth between 2020 and 2022. The organization also had to endure much like many charity organizations for a period during the Covid Pandemic where The Rolling Barrage had a ride but within regional bubbles. The 5th Anniversary of the ride was celebrated but not to the extent planned.
Oranizational tools such as Microsoft granting charity org access to Teams, Email, and Office software elevated the orgs ability to communicate.
Merchandise was redesigned to embrace our mission goals. Serving in the CAF, a posting, and operating an org like The Rolling Barrage can all add up. With that Paul decided to step down from the org in Nov 2022 and officially in February 2023 after a handover to current leadership.
In Nov 2022, the Founder of The Rolling Barrage, Scott Casey spoke at length with Christian Carter, who had various roles in TRB from planning, ride supporter, fundraiser, since 2017. He was asked one question, “what is the most important thing you see, that needs to be considered?” Chris answered instantly, “Your 10th Anniversary. At this point you have all the foundational aspects, but it needs to be built on in a big way and public, or your 10th Anniversary will be just another ride.” His answer to some may seem brutal in ways, but he was honest and right.
In Nov 2022, several new members joined the Board of Directors. The CEO was selected. The CEO is not part of the BoD, does not have voting rights. Chris’ first change in the org. Second…”Let’s tackle the website.” “For every nickel we spend, we have to bring back a shiny quarter or more to do what our mission is.” “We have a lot of work to do, you (collectively everyone from Sponsors, Supporters, Riders, BoD the Executive, Provincial Reps and Volunteers) I need your help, and in turn I help. We can’t do it alone.”
The Rolling Barrage has significant history. Below are Posters from all the previous rides across the country. Click on the image and it will expand in “Lightbox” for a better view. They are added from the first ride in 2017 to the most current one.
