Ride 2 Recovery
To the Editor:
On Friday, Aug. 27, the Ladewig-Zinkgraf American Legion Post 243 of Plymouth had the honor to host a dinner for true American heroes.
These weren't baseball or football stars; these were 40-plus American patriots. They are part of an organization called Ride 2 Recovery, with a mission statement of, “To help make a difference in the lives of Vets by assisting in their mental and physical rehabilitation programs.” These veterans are the wounded warriors of the current War on Global Terrorism. To combat the stress and mental toll of being injured as a result of battle, they challenge themselves by bicycling.
These veterans began their challenge in Edina, Minn., on Aug. 23, with a goal of participating in the American Legion National Convention parade Aug. 29 in Milwaukee. Using specially designed bicycles, since some riders are amputees, these veterans will have biked 435 miles in what has been called the Great Lakes Challenge. Their route through Wisconsin took them to Hudson, Chippewa Falls, Wausau, Green Bay, Sheboygan and Milwaukee. American Legion posts provided meals free of charge to these riders.
The Plymouth Legion dining hall was filled to the brim with honor for the sacrifice of these young patriots. Tears flowed and hugs were abundant in thanks for their service to our country. A traditional Sheboygan County brat and burger fry-out, with all of the usual accompaniments, was greeted with much enthusiasm. The post's Ladies Auxiliary planned and organized the meal, with post members assisting.
Mayor and post member Don Pohlman was on hand to welcome the riders to Plymouth, and County Board Chairman Michael Vandersteen presented the group with a proclamation from the County Board.
These riders are often called “disabled veterans,” but to see them in this challenge, those two words are an insult. The organization's website www.ride2recovery.com states: “No Arms.No Legs.No Problem,” and cycling provides an outlet to physically and emotionally challenge all injured veterans.
Konrad Kaczkowski, adjutant, Ladewig-Zinkgraf American
Legion Post 243, Plymouth
