The Fallen Heroes' Ride Across America

A coast-to-coast cycling event to honor
America's disabled veterans and their sacrifices

You don't have to go back to the eras of World War II, Korea, or Vietnam to learn about heroes. In our own generation, there are heroes among us. As you read this, millions of American servicemen and women are deployed around the world, often in hostile and dangerous conditions. Some of them are making the ultimate sacrifice. Many more are returning home with wounds that will take years to heal, or perhaps even remain with them for a lifetime. Our military families are also making tremendous sacrifices, and their story is frequently overlooked.

As the wars in Iraq and Afghanistan continue, the number of disabled veterans and military families touched by loss will sadly increase. It is an unfortunate fact that our government can only do so much to help our nation's veterans and their families. To go the extra mile, I am appealing to you for your help.

Americans helping Americans. Thank you for making a difference.

The Concept The purpose of this event is to raise awareness and funding for disabled veterans and the families of military members killed in action. This will be accomplished by means of a long-distance cycling tour from Saint Augustine, Florida to San Diego, California. Along the route, we will maximize opportunities to broadcast local interest stories about injured veterans, military families, and personnel who have received awards in combat.

The participation of cyclists representing the various branches of the military—either as veterans, reservists, or active-duty personnel—would be ideal. Most people cannot make a commitment of several months, so even participation for a few hours or days would be welcome. Citizens who support veterans are encouraged to join, as well.

The ride will begin in March 2007 and will take approximately 8-10 weeks to complete. Perhaps longer, if side trips are required.

Why a bike trip?
The cycling journey will be a test of stamina and endurance. Each and every day, cyclists will have to tackle new challenges on the long road ahead. We believe this journey can serve as a symbolic tribute to the stamina, endurance, and courage that our disabled veterans and their loved ones will need on their long road to recovery. While much of the trip will involve hardship and sacrifice, the sacrifices being made daily by American men and women around the world are incomparably greater.