Bikers gear up for honor ride fundraiser

OZARK — Many veterans who returned from the Vietnam War never received thanks. A fundraiser to help veterans from World War II to make it to Washington, D.C., is one local organization’s way of thanking all of them.

The Patriot Guard Riders are hosting an Honor Flight Ride on Saturday to help fund the first Wiregrass Honor Flight, which will send World War II veterans to Washington, D.C., to see the World War II Memorial.

Ride Captain Howard Swain said he is hoping for 500 motorcycles to take the ride from the Ozark Wal-Mart for about 105 miles through Troy, Enterprise and Level Plains before stopping at the Dothan VFW for lunch.

Proceeds from the bike ride will go toward Honor Flight, but Swain said the ride will be in honor of all veterans.

“Our organization helps vets in whatever way we can. This ride is a way of thanking anybody that ever served in any capacity for their country,” he said.
“We have members from as far as Afghanistan who have already collected money for this goal.”

Swain said residents without bikes who want to ride are welcome to take the back seats of some of the bikers.

Alabama state troopers are expected to escort the group.

The first honor flight is set for 6 a.m. May 9 from Dothan, Swain said.