Though their journey was delayed, the Marines did make it to Nashville.
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The Marines were safely evacuated from the bus and no injuries were reported.
The bus from North Carolina was engulfed in flames near Monteagle, leaving the 40 servicemen stranded.
A bus carrying 40 Marines on their way to Marine Week in Nashville caught fire Monday along Interstate 24 heading toward Monteagle, according to a Marine Corps spokesman.
“Once they used the fire extinguisher, it just kept growing, like a wildfire you’d say”, said Nathan Suchy.
WKRN reports the group pulled over near Monteagle Mountain along I-24 when the bus filled with smoke.
Luckily, no one was hurt in the fire. We made sure everyone got off, everyone got their gear and everything was accounted for.
The men thought they’d be stuck on the side of the road for a while, but just minutes later, a school bus arrived. They said this act of kindness truly showed them how much the community supports them.
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The opening ceremony, also being held at Public Square, will kick the week off on Wednesday at 6 p.m., and will feature a musical performance by country music star Darryl Worley and a special presentation and remarks by Mayor Barry.
