So I’ve been plinking around at my main hobby – music – for years.  Just playing for my own amusement, or so it started out.   Now I’ve got a band, we sound pretty good, we gig around town sometimes… (played for the wounded warriors’ Ride-2-Recovery event in Ventura, and we’re playing two gigs for the “Republican Party Animals” – one at the end of May and another in June)… and between that and film and TV assignments, I keep fairly busy.

Flashback to the last presidential campaign, 2007.   I meet a bunch of conservatives in Hollywood.  Who knew?!   In liberal Hollywood, there are actually a bunch of folks who work in the film industry and think a lot like I do.  Limited government, more personal freedom, individual responsibility, yada yada.  I’d been a conservative for some time but the risks to our nation now seem much more pronounced and pressing than at any other time in my life.

And the primary threat I see is not from without – but from within.

—–

I realized some time ago we are in a culture war.  On the one side we have those who love America, warts and all, and are proud to live in a country that stands as a beacon for freedom to the rest of the world.  And on the other side, we have those who don’t think much of our country or our heritage.  They blame America first for all the ills of the world; they mock and ridicule our time-honored traditions and cultural institutions like family, church, and country;  they espouse the notion that our Constitution is a “living document” to be altered and “shaped” at the latest indignant whim of a Liberal activist judge.  Our guiding document – the United States Constitution – they regard as a mere vestige of a stained and spotted past, an anachronistic relic irrelevant to our times.  This side of the argument works tirelessly to “fundamentally transform” our shining City on the Hill into something unrecognizable, something European…something foreign.   This side apparently has a big problem with a nation of rugged individualists who believe in Honor, Virtue, Freedom, and the unfettered and equal opportunity to, on your own, achieve a dream, limited only by your own talent, ambition, and perseverance.  

The vitriol is ramping up – between those demanding personal responsibility and those pushing entitlements.  Those who want liberty and self-reliance, and those who want to be taken care of.  A nation of doers and builders and innovators, or the nanny state.

I’ve seen firsthand both sides in action – and though the Tea Party keeps it relatively civil and orderly –the Leftists use raucous, intimidating and at times violent tactics to push their agenda.

Dennis with the R2R Pig

Today the R2R gang headed out towards the Danish tourist town of Solvang. But first, the kids of Oceana Elementary in Pismo came out in full force to cheer on the riders. Today featured a special American Legion Post 534 Lunch in the town of Orcutt. This is the most popular lunch on the ride and the Legion really stepped up with a great presence. They even arranged for a rocket launch at Vandenburg AFB just as we sat down to lunch. The Delta 2 rocket had a special R2R designation painted on the side and the roar after the launch shook the ground.

Rocket takes off

Each ride has it’s own feeling and character and some would say characters. Many warriors have been involved in the program early on. One such rider is Juan Guerrero from the great state of Alaska. Juan started riding with us in California last year and has missed only one event since. He is always smiling even though he is in great pain as his lower right leg is badly damaged from a tour in Iraq.  He has finally decided that it would be better to amputate the leg than endure the pain he contends with now. On Tuesday, he will check into Brooke Army Medical Center in San Antonio, Texas and the operation will be in a couple of weeks after that. He is already talking about coming out to the next ride in Florida on December 12 in Tampa, Florida.

Alaska’s own Juan Guerrero

A big part of what makes the R2R rides successful is out corporate partners. We have many that contribute to the effort including the American Legion Family and the USO. One of the bicycle industry partners is Shimano. Shimano’s Wayne Stetina has been involved since the beginning, but this is the first event where they have brought out the Neutral support truck and a mechanic. Robert Melzer and Bissell team mechanic Ben Oliver have been helping out the riders every day. They keep the riders and more importantly their bikes going each day. One of the benefits for the riders is that they get to try out the new Shimano Di2 electronic shifting system. The electronic shifting is very important to those with arm and hand use injuries. It makes it easier for those injured vets are able to shift and brake with just one hand. R2R has provided two warriors a shifting kit and is working with the VA to make it more accessible to those who fall under the VA system.

Shimano lending a hand

Dinner tonight is one of the best events of all of the R2R tours. Dennis Miller from SNL fame is the special guest. The sold-out event will raise over $15,000 for the R2R program. Miller entertained the crowd with his comedic tails of life. The evening was capped off with auction of a custom signed painting that went for $2500. A great night for all.

Just another day in the Challenge

Tomorrow Fox News reporter Adam Housley and actor Mike Vogel join the ride.

Actress Kristy Swanson

I admit, I did have one spill at a rest stop today. LOL!  It was my own fault not getting out of my clips properly. So, of course, I fell in front of everyone! They picked me up, dusted me off, and patted me on the back.  Several guys said, “Oh, we’ve all done that several times!” They made me feel at home.

I love this ride and all these wonderful people I get to hang out with.  I pray tomorrow will be as rewarding as today. Everyone tells me it’s going to be tough and I am so sore after my first day. But I am bound and determined to make it to the finish on Saturday!

****

Riders as far as the eye can see

Today’s ride from San Simeon to Pismo Beach pushed us past the halfway point of the ride. It also put the R2R warriors into our traditional area of community support. Beginning with the reception in Cambria all the way down to Pismo, the towns and community really came out to show their appreciation for the sacrifice these wounded heroes have made to serve our country.

USMC Dan “Doc” Jacobs

Today also marked the addition of three riders. Chad Fleming and actor Kristy Swanson joined up and brought even more energy to the group. Even R2R stalwart Larry Jester finally made it out.

The Dog has a great view

The group left San Simeon in one big group. It was a great way for everyone to talk with those they have not yet met. The best part of the day was knowing that Otis Spunkmeyer fresh baked cookies would be waiting for us at the finish. The other thing this leg of the ride is known for is the outpouring of support from the kids at schools along the route. It is amazing the affect screaming kids can have on a bunch of grown men and women. The calls of “USA, USA…,” “We Love You!,” and “Go USA!” could be heard from blocks away. There is much to say about how much it means to us to see this outpouring of support. It really is fun to see

Kids welcome us to town

Tomorrow ends with Dennis Miller….. – John Wordin

Day 5 – Williamsburg to Hampton saw the return of Patty Collins to the Ride. Patty has been very motivational for all of us as we have seen her develop over the past few rides. It was a year ago that Patty made her debut at a R2R event participating in last years East Coast Challenge.

Riding along the James River

Day 5 also saw the debut of Jackie and Dr. Wayne on the tandem. Jackie has never ridden a bike before, not even as a kid until she showed up at the start of the Memorial Challenge. She has come a long way since day one. She was quite shy and kept to herself and now is fully integrated into the group. She is fully enjoying the R2R experience.

Jackie and Dr. Doug

The best and most rewarding part of this program is to see the transformation of the wounded warriors that take part in the event. You look at the riders where they were on the first day and were they are now, it is truly amazing to see what a difference in their attitude and outlook. Whether it is Tony, Scott, “AC”, or even Nick or Matt that have ridden before, they have changed for the better this week.

Heading to Yorktown

Today we had a state police escort along the Colonial Parkway. There are no traffic lights or much traffic, but still when we reached Ft. Eustice, they really earned our respect. For those that know Hwy 60 in this area, lets just say that traffic is a way of life. We did not stop at any traffic lights and no cars to be seen. The group stayed together for the most part and the wounded warriors that rode 50 miles in 4 1/2 hours on day one and two, rode 62 miles in 4 hours today. They were quite proud of that accomplishment and celebrated by hitting the hotel swimming pool.

Patty Collins in action

Tonight’s dinner took place at Ft. Eustice with many members of their WTU. Col. Bowes threw a great BBQ. Thanks to the local USO for helping out. After dinner we were treated to a special screening of the movie “Brothers at Arms”. If you have not seen it, you should because it will give you a greater appreciation of the sacrifice our men and women in the military make.

Tomorrow we are really looking forward to American Idol winner David Cook…..

Regards,
Ride 2 Recovery
Making a Difference in the Lives of Wounded Warriors
818.888.7091×1
818.710.1453 Fax
www.Ride2Recovery.com

Supporters include American Legion Auxiliary, USO, Star Trac, VFW, Otis Spunkmeyer, Sunkist, Giant Bicycles, League of American Bicyclists, Operation Rebound, American Legion Riders, Step Up 4 Vets, California American Legion, Coca-Cola, Shimano, Veltec Sports, Hincapie Sports, Alternative Vehicles, Hansen’s, Clif Bar, Rudy Project, DeFeet, Park Tool, Speedplay, ProMax, Chamois Butt’r, CytoSport, and Bicycling Magazine. R2R is an America Supports You Homefront Group.

The 65 mile ride to Richmond along a good portion of Virginia Bike Route 1 promised to be a lot of fun.

Bike Route 1

Most everyone knows that Richmond was the capitol of the Confederacy, but did you know that: In 1775, Patrick Henry delivered his famous “Give me Liberty or Give me Death” speech in Richmond and in 1781, under the command of Benedict Arnold, Richmond was burned by British troops.

Everyone was all smiles today

Each of the R2R events are open to the Wounded Warriors as well as the general public. Many cycling enthusiasts really look for ways to support the troops and the Ride 2 Recovery provides them a unique way to shoe support. Not only can they help with their knowledge of cycling, but they can raise money for a worthy cause and have fun doing it because they get to do something that they love- Ride their Bike!.

Gary Gephart and Dr. Doug Wayne

In the Memorial Challenge there are quite a few riders who wanted to show their support for the wounded warriors and have a good time doing it. They come from near (Richmond native Dr. Doug Wayne) and far (Ellis Grossnickle and Scott Derr).

Ellis and Scott are co-workers who heard about R2R from the radio show done by Texas Challenge participant Steve Hayes. After that first impression, Scott and Ellis knew right away that they wanted to get involved and signed up to participate for the Memorial Challenge.

Ellis Grossnickle

In sort of a friendly rivalry, they wanted to see who could raise the most money. They both work for a company that manages financial assets so they put the rolodex to work.

All 3 men and the other non-military participants are having a great time interacting and hearing the stories of the wounded warriors. Dr. Wayne told us all the stories of the area we rode through today and as a member of the Richmond Cycling Club, they will have 20 friends join us tomorrow.

Also, the Governor of Virginia, Tim Kaine comes to the ride. Stay tuned for all of the fun from Day 4

Regards,
Ride 2 Recovery
Making a Difference in the Lives of Wounded Warriors
818.888.7091×1
818.710.1453 Fax
www.Ride2Recovery.com

Supporters include American Legion Auxiliary, USO, Star Trac, VFW, Otis Spunkmeyer, Sunkist, Giant Bicycles, League of American Bicyclists, Operation Rebound, American Legion Riders, Step Up 4 Vets, California American Legion, Coca-Cola, Shimano, Veltec Sports, Hincapie Sports, Alternative Vehicles, Hansen’s, Clif Bar, Rudy Project, DeFeet, Park Tool, Speedplay, ProMax, Chamois Butt’r, CytoSport, and Bicycling Magazine. R2R is an America Supports You Homefront Group.

250,000 people lined the route

The Parade features many Military groups and R2R was honored to be a part of such a great event.

The riders left the Parade area and headed down the GW parkway under the usually great escort of the American Legion Riders.

Heading down the Parade route

The ride group is made up of many different types of riders. There are many general public riders who are here to support the wounded warriors and enjoy a great cycling tour. There are the wounded warriors, many of them who are cycling for the first time. the last group is our support staff made up of volunteers, friends, and spouses. For many of the staff, this is there 2nd or 3rd time supporting the R2R program.

R2R with Gary Sinise and Lee Greenwood

Manassas is famous of course for staging 2 major battles in the Civil War, Bull Run 1 and Bull Run 2.

The First Battle of Bull Run, also known as the First Battle of Manassas (the name used by Confederate forces and still often used in the Southern United States), was fought July 21, 1861, near Manassas, Virginia. It was the first major land battle of the American Civil War.

Union Gen. McDowell’s ambitious plan for a surprise flank attack against the Confederate left was not well executed by his inexperienced officers and men, but the Confederates, who had been planning to attack the Union left flank, found themselves at an initial disadvantage.

The Confederates, under Stonewall Jackson,  launched a strong counterattack and as the Union troops began withdrawing under pressure, many panicked and it turned into a rout as they frantically ran in the direction of nearby Washington, D.C. Both sides were sobered by the violence and casualties of the battle, and they realized that the war would potentially be much longer and bloodier than they had originally anticipated.

In the Second Battle of Manassas, Lee, Jackson, and Longstreet drove the Union back to Centerville. It was Longstreet’s counter attack against the Union General Pope that sealed the victory. Tomorrow, the Riders will ride thru the battlefield area.

Tomorrow the group heads to Fredericksburg.

Regards,

Ride 2 Recovery
Making a Difference in the Lives of Wounded Warriors
818.888.7091×1
818.710.1453 Fax
www.Ride2Recovery.com

You can also follow the ride by joining our Facebook Ride 2 Recovery group.

Supporters include American Legion Auxiliary, USO, Star Trac, VFW, Otis Spunkmeyer, Sunkist, Giant Bicycles, League of American Bicyclists, Operation Rebound, American Legion Riders, Step Up 4 Vets, California American Legion, Coca-Cola, Shimano, Veltec Sports, Hincapie Sports, Alternative Vehicles, Hansen’s, Clif Bar, Rudy Project, DeFeet, Park Tool, Speedplay, ProMax, Chamois Butt’r, CytoSport, and Bicycling Magazine. R2R is an America Supports You Homefront Group.

Major General David Blackledge is not a superhero. He’s a human hero. 

In February of 2004, Major General Blackledge’s convoy was ambushed in Iraq. The interpreter, who was sitting next to him, was shot through the head. Taking fire, the vehicle rolled. But the survivors were able to escape. He sustained a broken back and ribs, with other injuries requiring eleven months of recovery and physical therapy.  

Fifteen months after the ambush, Major General Blackledge was deployed back to Iraq. While in Amman, Jordan for meetings, he was in one of three popular hotels that were struck by terrorist bombs. The explosions killed over 55 people and injured over 110. He suffered a neck injury. 

On the way to Arlington….

Major General Blackledge has demonstrated his courage during three combat tours (he also fought in the Persian Gulf War). He has been awarded five Bronze Star Medals as well as the two Purple Hearts he received for combat injuries. 

Major General Blackledge also has shown courage on a different front. He has been open about his struggles with post-traumatic stress after both incidents in which he was wounded. He’s the first U.S. Army general to acknowledge suffering nightmares, flashbacks and a short attention span.  

Because of his bravery, other soldiers have been empowered to step forward and talk about their experiences. He helped to erase the stigma.  

Major General Blackledge participated in the Road 2 Recovery’s recent “Don’t Mess With Texas Challenge” to support injured members of the military who have given so much to their country. The ride began at the Brooke Army Medical Center in San Antonio and finished 345 miles later at the Texas Rangers’ Ameriquest Field in Arlington. 

 
Riding with the USO’s Jeff Hill

“Road 2 Recovery provides our wounded warriors an opportunity to set challenging goals and then meet or exceed them within a supportive environment,” said Major General Blackledge, who is now Assistant Deputy Chief of Staff for Mobilization and Reserve Affairs. “The extended, multi-day rides like the Texas Challenge re-create conditions that military members are accustomed to, such as accomplishing a difficult mission as a team and the bonding that occurs from sharing a common experience together.

“An aspect of the long rides that I totally underestimated was the overwhelming support, generosity and gratefulness demonstrated by the local communities and veterans organizations. Participants come away with a greater sense of their own inner strength and capabilities, they learn to focus on possibilities rather than limitations and they gain a greater appreciation that they are not alone. The Road 2 Recovery program is truly uplifting and life-affirming.”

 
Throwing out the first pitch

Major General Blackledge pedaled his Jamis cyclocross bike, which has a steel frame and a little wider tires than a traditional road bike to give him more cushioning because of the lingering effects of his combat injuries.

Although he only recently received medical clearance to get back on a bike, Major General Blackledge welcomed the opportunity to offer encouragement and hope to soldiers who suffer post-traumatic stress with his first-hand story of recovery. 

“Hey, I’ve been through this. I’m not just telling you something that I’ve read off slides or a pamphlet. This is something I’ve experienced. It’s important to come forward if you’ve got these issues. No one should have to deal with this on their own. The help is there. This is no longer a mystery. The medical and psychological practitioners know how to get you through this and help you out.”

He said “Road 2 Recovery recognizes that bicycling does wonders for those with psychological injuries. I’m hoping through this program and others, we can get this message out. These are wounded warriors just like the ones with physical wounds. This will help them heal.” 

Major General Blackledge, who has a quiet, but strong demeanor, was raised in a family with a rich tradition of military service. His father retired after 30 years in the U.S. Army. His grandfather, who served with General Douglas MacArthur, was captured by the Japanese at Bataan and died in a slave labor camp.  

Major General Blackledge is the proud father of three daughters. His wife, Iwona, an officer in the U.S. Air Force, has also served two tours in Iraq as a critical care nurse. 

An avid cyclist, Major General Blackledge was one of the founders of the West Point Cycling Club. He also has competed in triathlons and the American Birkebeiner, a grueling 54-kilometer cross-country ski race in Wisconsin. 

“There’s just something magical about being on a bicycle,” he said. “Maybe it goes back to when you’re a kid and you first learn to ride a bike. You feel a sense of freedom. That feeling just stays with you.”

Story by Sharon Raboin

For more Info see: TheRoad2Recovery.org, and join us on Facebook