NEWS 5 CBS NEWS REPORT with reporter Mallory Pearson

A group of former services members pass through Grand Junction on their journey to raise awareness for injured veterans.

Photo by Andy Bockelman

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The mural of red, white and blue shows the patriotic spirit of Craig on the outer wall of Veterans of Foreign Wars Post 4265. The local VFW, 419 E. Victory Way, will welcome the Veterans Charity Ride — a cross-country excursion to raise awareness about wounded American soldiers — Friday afternoon. The riders will also head through Routt County and spend the night at Hahn’s Peak before going into Wyoming and ending their journey at the 75th annual Sturgis Rally in Sturgis, South Dakota.

By On Your Side Newsroom.

LOS ANGELES, California (KIVI)—Three Treasure Valley Wyakin Warriors were chosen to take part in the first ever Veterans Ride to Sturgis motorcycle rally.

The ride kicked off at one of America’s biggest gearheads known as former late night talk show host, Jay Leno.

A Hollywood producer is along for the ride and stick with Idaho On Your Side the latest on their journey.

Indian Motorcycles donated their bikes for the Treasure Valley riders.

SOURCE: http://www.scrippsmedia.com/kivitv/news/Treasure-Valley-Wyakin-Warrior-trio-kick-off-Sturgis-trip-with-Jay-Leno-319040641.html

​CLUTCH and CHROME Article – Written by Digits
What should grow to become one of the many great traditions we enjoy in the motorcycle world, kicked off with style and a famous face thanks to a surprise visit from Jay Leno.

Calling the ‘Veterans Charity Ride to Sturgis’ “The Next Great Tradition” Full Vision Productions and Indian Motorcycles, kicked off the event with class, honor and a touch of celebrity.

More than a dozen wounded veterans started the ride by picking up their Indian Motorcycles. They were told the bikes were prepped and waiting for them in a Los Angeles warehouse. All were shocked and surprised when Jay Leno opened the door and led the group into the world famous Jay Leno Garage.

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/