It's not about
the politics. It's not about the war.
It's about the soldiers.Imagine
embarking on a 4,400-mile journey across the United
States as part of a group of courageous men and women
who cycle to spread an inspirational message of hope.
Four thousand miles is an extremely long trek and would
be quite challenging for anyone, and is perhaps something
very few people would consider doing. Imagine how challenging
it would be for someone missing a limb, or perhaps even
two limbs. It may just seem next to impossible; however,
U.S. Army veterans Heath Calhoun, Ryan Kelly and other
dedicated cyclists of Soldier Ride prove that accomplishing
this trek is definitely possible!
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Launching
this amazing journey for the third year in a row, more
than 75 Soldier Ride 2006 cyclists will take off on
a cross-country trek from Montauk, New York to Pendleton,
California in order to raise funds and awareness for
soldiers returning injured from Afghanistan, Iraq and
other military conflicts around the world. Biking cross-country
also helps aid in the rehabilitation of many participating
soldiers, eager to reinvigorate their own bodies.
One
may ask, "why would people go to such great lengths,
literally 4,400 miles, in order to spread a message
of inspiration and hope? Where does the inspiration
to embark on such a journey come from?" Steve Nardizzi,
executive director of Soldier Ride explains. "These
cyclists, many who have been wounded, want to give back,
he said." "Even though they have already given
so much, they want to give this positive message to
the public and pass the message on to the next group
of wounded soldiers."
Steve states that another aspect of inspiration is the
challenge.
"Many
of these men and women have been physically active throughout
their lives, and are not going to lose that," he
noted. "They are going to get on the bike and prove
to themselves 'I can still do this." Soldier Ride
is not about the politics, it's not about the war, it's
simply about the soldiers.
You can join U-Haul in their commitment to help support
Soldier Ride and the Wounded Warrior Project. Purchase
a "Defending Freedom" rubber wristband for
$3 at participating U-Haul locations, or make an online
donation here.
(Source:
U-Haul)
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