The Veterans Charity Ride to Sturgis has officially hit the road! Here are a few highlights from their journey so far.

July 28th:
The veterans and other participants gathered in Sun Valley, California for their Grand Send Off to the Sturgis Motorcycle Rally. As the Official Footwear of the Ride, Bates provided participants with the Freedom and Bomber motorcycle boots to accompany them on their journey.

A Veteran amputee wearing the Bates Freedom Boot. (Photo by Sara Liberte Photography)

The group met at the L.A. Fire Station #77 and were greeted by a large crowd of supporters and the KTLA 5 News Team! Everyone gathered to send them off on their 9-day journey across the country from Los Angeles to the Sturgis, South Dakota.

Reporter Gayle Anderson and VCR Founder Dave Frey.

The group departed the station and made their way out to the famous Angeles Crest Hwy and headed to their first stop: Las Vegas, Nevada.

Leaving California via Mojave desert. (Photo by Sara Liberte Photography)

July 29th:
Once in Las Vegas, the group stopped at the Nevada State Memorial to pay their respects to fallen soldiers. Next they continue on for Bryce Canyon, Utah!

(Photo by Sara Liberte Photography)

At the Nevada State Memorial. (Photo by Sara Liberte Photography)

July 30th:
With their spirits high and the sun shining, the Veterans rode through Arizona on their way to Utah.

(Photo by Sara Liberte Photography)

Riding through Escalante, they stopped for a quick lunch before continuing on to Moab for an amazing Welcome Reception in Swanny City Park, Utah.
The City of Moab surprised Dave Frey with a generous donation to The Veterans Charity Ride! After a heartfelt goodbye the group put their kickstands up and headed to Colorado!

(Photo by Sara Liberte Photography)

August 2nd:
The Veterans Charity Ride arrived in Eagle, Colorado to a warm reception from excited fans and fellow patriots! The veterans were treated to a fun-filled day of food, craft beer and live entertainment!

The welcoming committee! (Photo by Sara Liberte Photography)

(Photo by Sara Liberte Photography)

(Photo by Sara Liberte Photography)

August 4th:
The group enjoyed a hearty breakfast with local veterans and riders at the American Legion Riders dst. 5 post 178, in Lakewood, Colorado before the long ride to South Dakota.

Follow the blog to see part two of this story coming soon!