The Highground Veterans Memorial Raises Over $62,000 During the Heroes Ride Bike Tour

Wednesday, August 13th, 2025 -- 11:01 AM

From August 1-3, 2025, cyclists from the Northern, Western, Eastern and Southwestern routes set off once again on their annual journey to The Highground.

Three of these routes spanned a full three days with riders covering roughly 60 miles each day, a powerful display of endurance, commitment, and heart. The ride paid tribute to Wisconsin’s fallen heroes and brought together veterans, families and supporters in a shared act of remembrance and healing.

The tradition traced its roots back to 1985, when Vietnam veteran Tom Miller rode 1,244 miles across Wisconsin, each mile representing one of the 1,244 Wisconsin service members who lost their lives in the Vietnam War.

His ride fueled the creation of the Wisconsin Vietnam Veterans Memorial Project (WVVMP), and the following year, the second Annual Bike-a-thon rallied under the cry, “Saddle up…and Move ‘Em Out,” continuing a mission grounded in honor and  reminiscence.

What began as a solo tribute evolved into the Highground Heroes Ride Bike Tour, a multi-route, multi-day event that has grown into a powerful symbol of unity and sacrifice.

This year’s ride raised over $62,000 to support The Highground’s ongoing efforts to honor and help heal veterans and educate future generations. The event became more than a fundraiser, it became a living bridge between generations.

Seasoned veterans passed the torch to younger riders, some as young as 10, who took on the full 170-mile challenge. The tour celebrated newcomers, honored longtime participants, and remembered those who had passed, with each story adding depth to the ride’s legacy.

This is not a casual ride. Months of training and preparation lead up to the event, and riders face physical and mental challenges: aching muscles, sunburns, unpredictable weather, and the grit required to keep going.

With mild temperatures this year, the conditions proved to be a welcome companion, lifting spirits and easing the miles. When the riders arrived at The Highground on Sunday, August 3, they were greeted by Vietnam veterans and attendees of the annual Vietnam Veterans Reunion.

The moment was deeply moving with cyclists thanking veterans for their service, and veterans expressing heartfelt appreciation for the riders’ dedication. The success of the 41st Annual Heroes Ride was made possible by an incredible community of supporters.

The Highground extends their deepest thanks to the generous sponsors whose contributions helped fuel this year’s event:

• AgCountry Farm Credit Services,
• American Legion Auxiliary Units 301 and 379,
• American Legion Post 118,
• American Legion Post 218,
• American Legion Post 263,
• American Legion Post 268,
• American Legion Post 301,
• American Legion Post 353,
• American Legion Post 425,
• American Legion Post 75,
• Benck Mechanical,
• Bernards Northtown Chrysler/Dodge/Ram,
• Blue Hills Kiwanis,
• Central WI Broadcasting,
• Custom Heating & Cooling,
• Deers Bar,
• Gibby's Lanes,
• Hanson's IGA,
• J & L Auto,
• JBC Screenprinting,
• Kwik Trip,
• Lion's Club-Neillsville,
• Lowe Advertising,
• Marine Corps League Det. 552,
• Marshfield Firefighter-local 1021,
• McMillan Electric,
• Navy Club Ship 75,
• NEI Electric, Inc,
• NorthStar Fitness,
• Our Lady of Sorrows,
• Randy Henchen,
• Ready Randy's Sports Bar & Grill,
• Saratoga Mini Mart,
• The Sports Den,
• VFW Auxiliary Unit 10262,
• VFW Post 1037,
• VFW Post 1039,
• VFW Post 1904,
• VFW Post 305,
• VFW Post 6550,
• VFW Post 8514,
• VFW Post 9464,
• WWIS Radio,
• Rhe dedicated riders who gave their all on the road,
• And the tireless support personnel who ensured every mile was safe and smooth.

From route coordinators to volunteers and cheering families, each person played a vital role in honoring our veterans and advancing The Highground’s mission.

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