(SOUTHERN COLORADO) — A gathering of around 1,500 motorcycles rode from Woodland Park to Cripple Creek on Saturday, August 22, as part of the POW/MIA Recognition Ride, ending at the 34th annual Salute to American Veterans Rally.
The Salute to American Veterans Rally is the longest-standing gathering of veterans & patriots West of the Mississippi. The two-day festival will feature live music, a beer garden, a silent auction, and other activities throughout the weekend, including the ride.
Veterans, riders, and supporters came together from across the globe to honor those who served in one of the of the Rally. The ride was hosted by nonprofit, Vets4Vets, which is raising funds to help homeless veterans. Todd Richert, Co-founder of Vets4Vets and Ride Coordinator said that the event was started 18 years ago, and has drawn veterans from as far as Australia.
“They come out to support us and they’re all happy to be here,” said Richert. “They come out early in the morning and we start lining up, and so they’re here all morning. They’re just excited to be here. It’s a lot of fun talking to these the veterans that come from all over to let them know who we are, what we do, and just show our appreciation for them being here.”…