The inaugural Wounded Warrior Project Soldier Ride will be held at 10 a.m. Friday, Sept. 25 at the American Legion Ocean Beaches Post 129, located at 1151 S. Fourth St. in Jacksonville Beach.
Over 50 warriors who have received help from the nonprofit organization will join members of the American Legion 5th District Riders to participate in the event.
The event kicks off with a breakfast for riders, followed by a police motorcade traveling south on A1A to Mickler's Landing for a water break, returning north along Ponte Vedra Boulevard back to Jacksonville Beach. The route will take riders along Beach Boulevard before returning to Post 129 for lunch.
"This event is more than just a ride. For many warriors, it's the first time they venture outside their homes to connect with their communities," said WWP Soldier Ride Manager Bill Hayes.
"Soldier Ride also introduces injured veterans to Wounded Warrior Project long-term health and wellness programs, which include physical training, outdoor events, nutrition classes and robust mental health programs."
Wounded Warrior Project (WWP) is a veterans service organization focused on the total well-being of veterans, service members and their families. The programs, advocacy and awareness efforts help warriors thrive, provide essential lifelines to families and caregivers, and prevent veteran suicides.
All WWP programs, including benefits and financial wellness programs, are provided at no cost to the warriors or their families. According to the WWP Warrior Survey, 83% of warriors who participated in WWP programs reported an improved quality of life.
For American Legion Post 129, this marks the first time the post has joined with WWP on an event since 2016.
Founded in 1942 to serve the local military community, Post 129 offers affordable dining and drinks, live entertainment and a welcoming atmosphere for veterans and members. The post also donates thousands of dollars annually to local nonprofits and sponsors Project 22, an annual event that raises funds for veteran suicide prevention programs.
"The American Legion in Florida, along with our post, share many goals with the Wounded Warrior Project, especially when it comes to supporting and funding programs to prevent veteran suicides," said Post 129 Commander Jim Wineland.
"We hope the Jacksonville Beach Soldier Ride will be the first of future partnerships with the organization and its warriors."
