The mountains west of Colorado Springs reverberated with engine noise on a Saturday in late August as a large column of motorcycles departed Woodland Park bound for Cripple Creek. Roughly 1,500 riders staged at the Woodland Park high school parking lot ahead of the ride, which took place August 22. Troopers from the Colorado State Patrol led the procession along U.S. 24 and then south on Co. 67, a corridor of 18.7 miles running between Divide and Cripple Creek that state lawmakers designated the POW/MIA Memorial Highway in 2013.
The ride and the accompanying rally were both founded and organized by Jim Wear, whose original aim was to draw public attention to U.S. military veterans whose whereabouts remain unknown; over the years, both events have grown into a broader annual tribute to all who have served. The ride is currently hosted by the nonprofit Vets4Vets, which raises money for homeless veterans; co-founder and ride coordinator Todd Richert said the organization has been running the event for 18 years and has drawn participants from as far away as Australia.
The procession was timed to reach Cripple Creek's main thoroughfare as the 34th Salute to American Veterans Rally was getting underway, joining a parade held to recognize veterans and currently serving military members. The Salute to American Veterans Rally is billed as the longest-standing gathering of veterans and patriots west of the Mississippi. Over the two-day festival, attendees could take in live musical performances, a beer garden, a silent auction, and a range of other activities. Admission to the rally is free and open to the public.
As the column made its way toward Cripple Creek, residents and supporters stationed themselves along the roadside carrying American flags, patriotic displays, and signs expressing gratitude to veterans and active-duty personnel. Richert spoke to the enthusiasm he witnessed among those who came out. "They come out to support us and they're all happy to be here," he said, noting that participants arrive and begin lining up early in the morning. "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."
Once the motorcyclists arrived in Cripple Creek, a Remembrance Ceremony was held at City Park, featuring flyovers by vintage aircraft alongside guest speakers and musical performances. A number of local individuals and organizations were recognized with bronze plaques destined for permanent placement in the park's memorial. The ceremony concluded with the debut of the Pikes Peak Honor Bell II, which was tolled seven times in remembrance of those who have served.
No information on funds raised through Vets4Vets fundraising efforts during the weekend had been made public as of publication.