July is winding down, which means that you’re likely to hear the sound of big V-twin engines winding up, a nationwide orchestra of cruiser and bagger aficionados tuning their instruments of choice as they prepare for their annual symphony on perhaps the world’s greatest stage for big bikes – the Sturgis Rally. This year’s event will be bigger than most – it’s the 75th anniversary – and a very special group of riders will be be making the pilgrimage, with the hopes of launching a new Sturgis tradition.​

July is winding down, which means that you’re likely to hear the sound of big V-twin engines winding up, a nationwide orchestra of cruiser and bagger aficionados tuning their instruments of choice as they prepare for their annual symphony on perhaps the world’s greatest stage for big bikes – the Sturgis Rally. This year’s event will be bigger than most – it’s the 75th anniversary – and a very special group of riders will be be making the pilgrimage, with the hopes of launching a new Sturgis tradition.

Wounded veterans are joining members of the city of Los Angeles (CA) Fire Department (LAFD) motorcycle club for a charity ride to the annual rally in Sturgis, South Dakota.

The local ABC affiliate reported that participants in the ride hope to raise some serious issues that concern veterans, including rising suicide rates.

“Patriots that have protected our country, as well as firefighters and police officers, so we have a common bond there as firefighters,” LAFD Fire Hog Ted Kalnas told reporters. “Within our Fire Hog Motorcycle Club, at least half of the club are previous veterans so it’s very near and dear to them.”

Read more and watch a video at http://abc7.com/news/lafd-fire-hogs-wounded-vets-head-to-75th-annual-sturgis-motorcycle-rally/886986/

LOS ANGELES (KABC) --

Led by members of the Los Angeles City Fire Department’s own motorcycle club, more than a dozen wounded veterans are hitting the road in the first-ever veterans charity ride to Sturgis, South Dakota — a popular spot for bikers.

They’ll have some fun along the way, but will also deal with some serious issues that concern veterans.

“We’ve got a suicide rate of 22 a day right now and it’s only on the rise. The reality of it is that we, as service members, need to start taking that on as our personal mission to start getting that solved,” wounded warrior Glen Silva said.

Posted: Thursday, July 23, 2015 10:36 am
Sharon Sullivan Moab Sun News.
A caravan of motorcycle riders – all military veterans – will come through Moab where they will spend two nights on their way to the annual Sturgis Bike Rally in the Black Hills of South Dakota.