The Highground Veterans Memorial Welcomed Over 230 Registered Motorcycles for 2026 Honor Ride
Thursday, June 4th, 2026 -- 11:01 AM
The Highground welcomed more than 230 registered motorcycles, along with many additional riders and community members, for the 2026 Honor Ride.
This ride culminates in a powerful day of remembrance, shared experiences and support for our veterans and our fallen heroes. The annual motorcycle run began at seven separate locations across Wisconsin, with riders traveling along scenic routes before coming together at The Highground.
Motorcyclists enjoyed food, friendship, basket raffles and the opportunity to reflect and honor those who never made it home. “It was truly touching to see so many riders and community members come and remember those who never made it home and support our mission,” said Amber Smith, event coordinator for The Highground.
One rider shared, “This is our first year and first time here at the park. It’s awe-inspiring that so many individuals gather to remember our brothers and sister who were lost serving their country.”
At 2:30pm, riders departed The Highground for the traditional parade route through the city of Neillsville, escorted by the Neillsville Fire Department, Clark County Sheriff’s Department, and the Neillsville Police Department.
Community members lined up along the streets to support the motorcycles as they traveled through town before returning to the park. At 3pm, attendees and visitors observed the National Moment of Remembrance with a minute of silence.
The Memorial Day Ceremony followed, beginning with the presentation of colors by members of the Leathernecks Road Warriors Motorcycle Club, VFW Riders, and CVMA Riders, followed by an inspiring a cappella version of the National Anthem performed by Abigail Mathis.
The ceremony was led by Gary Weirauch, board chair at The Highground, who highlighted the significance of the organization, which includes its veterans' programs and its many tributes dedicated to those who served.
Guest speaker Melissa Doud, veteran and tribal liaison for the Wisconsin Department of Veterans Affairs, shared her personal journey and experiences from her 20 years serving in the United States Army. The ceremony concluded with the reading of the names of 100 KIA/MIA/POW veterans and Justin Klute performing TAPS.
During the reading, Boy Scouts and Girl Scouts of Neillsville rang The Highground’s replica Liberty Bell and assisted in placing more than 50 American flags throughout the grounds. Through generous sponsorships and donations, this year’s Honor Ride raised $12,717 to support The Highground’s veterans' programs and ongoing efforts.
The organization extends its sincerest gratitude to all sponsors and supporters:
- Belvedere Supper Club,
- LabraDoor Overhead Services,
- Nicolet Law – Midwest Motorcycle Lawyers,
- Leathernecks Road Warriors Motorcycle Club,
- Bull Falls Harley-Davidson,
- American Legion Riders District 7,
- Marc-On Shooting,
- Scheels,
- VFW Riders District 7,
- Department of Wisconsin VFW Riders,
- OEM,
- Thrivent,
- Potawatomi Casino Hotel,
- Lake of the Torches Casino Hotel,
- Hello Adorn,
- Country Jam USA,
- CycleFish,
- JBC Screenprinting & Embroidery LLC,
- WWIS Radio,
- Central Wisconsin Broadcasting,
- And all donors who contributed in-kind items for the basket raffle.
The Highground also extends heartfelt thanks to the volunteers who helped make the event possible, the Neillsville community for supporting the parade route, and the many individuals working behind the scenes whose dedication ensured a meaningful and successful day.
The Honor Ride continues to serve as a ride of purpose and remembrance, allowing veterans, families, riders and supporters to stand together in honoring the fallen alongside their brothers and sisters in arms.
(Photo courtesy of The Highground via press release)
Feel free to contact us with questions and/or comments.