SUPPORT AMERICA’S HEROES: Wounded Warriors Cycle Across America to Raise Awareness for Veteran Issues Soldier Ride® is a nationally recognized veteran bike ride that inspires warriors to connect with each other and their communities, while providing the American public an opportunity to honor their service and sacrifices.

The adaptive cycling program began in 2004 when civilian Chris Carney cycled more than 5,000 miles coast-to-coast to support Wounded Warrior Project® (WWP) and help raise awareness for injured veterans. The following year, several combat warriors who returned from Operation Enduring Freedom with visible and invisible injuries joined Chris for another cross-country ride.

The trek across the nation proved to be a milestone on the journey to recovery as wounded warriors redefined their personal strengths and limitations. Despite facing many obstacles, the warriors refused to give up.

They used the experience as a catalyst to show the public and themselves that with support and motivation, anything was possible. Soldier Ride Across America honors the 15-year anniversary of Chris’ historic coast-to-coast trek in support of injured veterans, which spurred the creation of WWP’s Soldier Ride program.

Today, Soldier Ride continues to inspire warriors to heal their bodies and minds. So far this year, more than 1,200 riders have participated in more than 30 Soldier Ride events nationwide.

SOLDIER RIDE ACROSS AMERICA HIGHLIGHTS:
• Soldier Ride Across America consists of three teams of wounded warriors representing the U.S. East Coast, Central, and West Coast regions.
• Soldier Ride Across America kicks off in Manhattan on Sept. 8. Warriors will visit numerous cities on the cross-country journey – including Washington, DC; Somerset, Pennsylvania; Louisville, Kentucky; Nashville, Tennessee; Little Rock, Arkansas; Lubbock and El Paso, Texas; and Tucson, Arizona – all before ending in San Diego, California, on Oct. 7.
• Soldier Ride Across America has a 3,300-mile route – with each team riding more than 1,000 miles.

WWP is one of the largest veterans' service organizations in the United States. As a veterans' charity, WWP serves veterans who incurred a physical or mental injury or illness on or after Sept. 11, 2001, and their families and caregivers.

Since 2003, WWP has been a tireless advocate for our nation’s finest, improving the lives of over half a million warriors and their families.

We’ll be coming through your Santa Clara on September 23, and if you and your community members see us, please be sure to wave and show your support. For more information about WWP and our free programs and services, call 877.832.6997.