A large convoy of motorcycles rolled through the Pikes Peak region on Saturday as part of a tradition honoring prisoners of war and those missing in action. 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 and patriots west of the Mississippi. The two-day festival featured live music, a beer garden, a silent auction, and other activities throughout the weekend, including the ride.

The ride was hosted by nonprofit Vets4Vets, which is raising funds to help homeless veterans. The co-founder of Vets4Vets and ride coordinator said the event was started 18 years ago and has drawn veterans from as far as Australia.

Veterans, riders, and supporters came together from across the globe to honor those who served in what organizers described as a community-centered weekend of recognition and fundraising. The co-founder noted that participants arrive early to line up and that the atmosphere is enthusiastic. "It's a lot of fun talking to these 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," he said.

The rally is free and open to the public.

How much the weekend's silent auction and fundraising activities yielded for Vets4Vets' homeless veteran programs had not been reported as of publication.