ANDREWS AFB, Md. –
They are Air Force, Marines, Army, Navy, National Guard and Reserve. They are the men and women of the United State military who risk life and limb to serve America and protect her liberties. They are servicemembers who gave a part of themselves in the line of duty, and their struggles and sacrifices were recognized at Andrews during the second stage of a 40-mile cycling tour across the National Capital Region.
The Wounded Warrior Project's Soldier Ride, a rehabilitative cycling program to increase public awareness and appreciation for servicemembers injured in combat, marked its second day of events at Andrews May 1.
More than 40 wounded warriors participated in the two-day ride, named, "White House to the lighthouse." They began April 30 at the White House with opening remarks by President Barack Obama, and rode around Washington D.C. Team Andrews welcomed them the morning of May 1, and gave them a sendoff to Annapolis, Md.
Marine Lance Corporal Jose Gasca, infantryman from the 3rd Battalion, 6th Marine Division and wounded warrior, rode a hand cycle for the 40-mile event for the second time in his life; the first being the day before.
"I'm up for it," he said. "I lost both of my legs to an improvised explosive device while doing convoy duty in Fallujah. This is a great chance to prove myself and prove that I can continue with my life."
"The purpose of the Soldier Ride is three-fold," said Nick Krause, public and media relations representative for the Wounded Warrior Ride. "It is to show that these servicemembers can do every act that an uninjured person could do. Also, someone with a new injury is able to see that someone with the same injury six months out is riding a bike, participating in the community and doing things they never thought they could do again. Lastly, it is to raise awareness, to remind the American community of the sacrifices that these young men and women have made."
In their visit to Andrews, the wounded warriors received a ceremonial send-off. They were greeted by Maj. Gen. Ralph Jodice, Air Force District of Washington commander, Col. Steven Shepro, 316th Wing commander, Andrews members and family and friends, in front of the 316th Wing Headquarters building.
Andrews leaders spoke to the motivated group of cyclists, who were dressed in red, white and blue riding gear.
"I know that for many of you, this is your first visit back to Andrews since arriving here from the front lines in need of medical care," Colonel Shepro said in his opening remarks. "It is truly our privilege and honor to welcome and cheer you on in this, your ride to recovery, and to honor your brave service."
After speeches from commanders and fellow participants, the wounded warriors began the base route taking them from Perimeter Road, across Menoher Drive, up Arnold Avenue, to Perimeter Road again and out the North Gate, while being cheered on by Andrews members and friends.
Lieutenant Col. Andrew Lourake, 316 WG director of plans and programs, showed his support from the Andrews sidelines. "It was really great to see so many of these brave warriors taking part in the today's event. It warms my heart to see them here, verses when I first met them lying in their hospital beds all broken up."
Some Andrews members rode the base route with the wounded warriors, including the AFDW commander.
"I've been riding for over 15 years, but those few short miles I rode with the wounded warriors were by far the most memorable," General Jodice said. "It was humbling and inspiring to be pedaling alongside those who have given so much and keep giving of themselves in service to their country and fellow injured service members."
The riders also received a presidential style escort, to include a motorcade of squad cars, motorcycles and specially painted U-Haul trucks used to transport their equipment.
Team Andrews fire and emergency vehicles met the motorcade at the North Gate and draped a U.S. flag from the bucket of a ladder truck for the cyclists to ride under in their triumphant exit.
For more information about the Wounded Warrior Ride, visit http://sr.woundedwarriorproject.org.