The Highground Veterans Memorial’s Honor Ride Raises $7,900

Friday, June 6th, 2025 -- 1:00 PM

The Highground kicked off the new year by hosting the Honor Ride at its own grounds, marking a significant milestone in its mission to honor and support veterans.

The event, which had been held at the American Legion Post 73 in Neillsville for 14 of the past 15 years, took place at the site that holds deep meaning for so many.

“We are deeply appreciative of the Neillsville Legion for its years of support and coordination for the motorcycle rides as The Highground just wasn’t able to accommodate all the event needs,” shared Elizabeth Taubenheim, The Highground event coordinator.

“This year’s Honor Ride was not just a tribute, it was a homecoming, a moment of reflection, and a powerful reminder of the sacrifices made by those who served.”

Welcoming over 300 motorcyclists from across Wisconsin, the event featured seven routes converging at The Highground for lunch, raffle baskets and the Memorial Day parade through Neillsville.

Veterans and riders described the experiences as a homecoming, likening the departure for the parade to the moment they left for boot camp, and returning to the Highground as a welcome home.

Throughout the day, the park was full of guests honoring their fallen loved ones who served, finding comfort in its serene surroundings while supporting the Honor Ride. This year’s procession route through Neillsville was adjusted in response to riders’ requests, ensuring a meaningful and well-supported journey.

The Neillsville Volunteer Fire Department, Neillsville Police Department and Clark County Sheriff’s Department went above and beyond, leading the parade and providing traffic control at key intersections. At 3pm, all present joined in the National Moment of Remembrance, followed by a moving Memorial Day Ceremony.

The Neillsville Girl and Boy Scouts played vital roles, placing over 50 American Flags around the park, leading the gathering in the Pledge of Allegiance and ringing The Highground Liberty Bell during the “reading of the KIA names”. Guest Speaker JT Savor, an Army veteran, shared his military service experience and honored the memory of his fallen Army brother, “Tos,” who had a significant impact on JT’s life and where he is today.

The ceremony featured a beautiful rendition of the National Anthem by Abigail Mathis from Neillsville, and the State Army Honor Guard provided the ceremonial presentation of colors. Through the generosity of sponsors and participants, the event raised $7,900 to help support The Highground continue its mission.

The organization expresses deep gratitude to its sponsors, including Leathernecks Road Warriors Motorcycle Club, Combat Veterans Motorcycle Assoc. WI 45, American Legion Riders Dist. 7, ABE Concrete & Excavating LLC, Marc-On-Shooting, Scheels, VFW Riders Dist. 7, Dept of WI VFW Riders, Bull Falls Harley Davidson, OEM, O’Reilly’s, Thrivent, Bonnie Henchen, Wisc. Timber Rattlers, Good Company, Cycle Fish, and Central Wisconsin Broadcasting.

This event allows veterans and supporters to honor the fallen alongside their brothers and sisters in arms. Without the unwavering support of sponsors, guests, volunteers and staff, this Memorial Day event would not have been such a resounding success.

Feel free to contact us with questions and/or comments.