The Highground Veterans Memorials Heroes Ride Bike Tour: The Northern Route

Monday, July 13th, 2026 -- 2:01 PM

On Friday, July 31, cyclists with the “Awesome Northern Route” will load their support vehicles and embark on their three-day journey as part of The Highground’s Annual Bicycle Tour. 

This powerful tradition began in 1985 when Tom Miller rode 1,244 miles across Wisconsin, each mile symbolizing a service member from the state who lost their life in the Vietnam War. His mission was to raise awareness, honor Vietnam veterans and support the founding of The Highground.

Today, the event continues to thrive as the Annual Heroes Ride. This year, The Highground is thrilled to introduce new route leaders, Aaron and Alyssa Bembnister, who have taken the helm of the Northern Route after participating in previous years.

The Highground is exceedingly grateful to Mike and Kathy Gleisner for their many years of dedicated leadership and service to this route. Their contributions have been invaluable. The full team of riders from the Northern Route will officially begin their journey on the morning of July 31 from the Veterans Center off Highway 27.

They will tackle their final stretch on Sunday, August 2, and are expected to arrive at The Highground between 10:30 and 11:30am. Upon their arrival, they will be greeted by a community of Vietnam Veteran Reunion guests along with family and friends ready to shower them with the recognition and gratitude they deserve.

This event is far more than just a casual weekend ride. Participants commit countless hours to preparation as they navigate two to three days of demanding physical challenges, grappling with sore muscles, blisters and the unpredictable Wisconsin weather.

The warm welcome they receive at The Highground creates a powerful atmosphere, embodying a mission that has fostered healing and remembrance for over four decades.

Riders will unite for the “Heroes Family” meal and a brief ceremony before heading home, culminating in a heartfelt reunion with Vietnam veterans and guests attending the Vietnam Veterans Reunion.

This makes the event one of the most profound and cherished experiences of the year. The Heroes Ride, the organization’s largest and longest-running fundraiser, raised over $67,000 in 2025. These vital funds directly support life-changing veterans initiatives and everyday operations at The Highground.

The Highground proudly welcomes returning riders and warmly invites new participants every year. There is still time to get involved, join the Northern Route today. Visit thehighgroundheroesride.com for route and rider registration information.

(Photo courtesy of The Highground via press release)

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