It was an idea a group of friends had while at a bar in New York 15 years ago and today several ‘warriors’ rode through Lamar County in their quest to ride from New York to San Diego for the Soldiers Ride Across America for the Wounded Warrior Project.
“The group of men who had this idea wanted to raise money for products given to veterans while in hospital,” said bike tech and ride coordinator Lorinda Putter.
The ride started in New York on September 8th and they plan on arriving in San Diego on October 3rd.
“We have a total of 36 riders that are split into teams who will complete the ride in sections across America. We have four riders on the road right now and they’ll switch out shortly for the last leg of today’s ride into Sherman, TX.”
One of those warriors is Jered Holder who served in the United State Army from 1999 to 2008.
“The biggest motivation for me is more along the lines of advocacy,” said Jered. “When I came back from Iraq, I had a hard time adjusting and I ended up finding myself in a low spot and struggled with drinking and even suicide.”
Jered credits the Wounded Warrior Project and the Soldier Ride Across America for helping pull him out of the dark place he was in.
“The ride has really helped pull me out of the dark spot I was in and it’s a chance to show other veterans out there that there is a hope for things to get better.”
Those wanting to donate to the Wounded Warrior Project can visit www.woundedwarriorproject.org and click the donate button.
THANK YOU to all those on the Soldier Ride Across America for the Wounded Warrior Project and to all those who served.
