History

2003 – Lublin

A buzz was passing around central Wisconsin about something called “Freedom Ride”. A helmet rally, a protest, what the heck this supposed to be. You want to ride over and see what’s going on? Well about 40 to50 riders showed up and a quick trip to Jump River and back to Lublin VFW hall. A few words from Senator Dave Zien proclaiming the start of a tradition and the first ride was on the books.

2004 – Cornell

Did you hear about last year, well I’m going this year. About 100 riders showed up and found a semi with the names of the victims from the 911 tragedy as part of the ride. A pig roast in Cornell and the tradition grows.

2005 – Ladysmith

The day begins with the Main Street in Gilman filling with bikes and they just keep coming. 275 left going to Holcombe then up Hwy 27 to LAdysmi5th. When the 10-12 Road Guards entered the south city limits to Ladysmith the two squads felt it was going to be an easy job. 15 minutes later the officer leading the group through town was sure there was at least 5000 or more still coming over the hill. I guess rearview mirror do distort your view.

2006 – Chippewa Falls

Where are they coming from? Rain or shine a group from the Medford arrive with 50 riders alone. Park Falls, Ladysmith, Bruce, Neillsville they came to see what the thing was about.

An inspiring site is 400 riders moving down the road in a single group. A stop at the Cadott Memorial with Senator Dave Zien, Senator Russ Decker and Representative Marty Williams joining us. Then on to Chippewa Falls past Ole Abe in Jim Falls.

2007 – Medford

Another year and anther big group riding to Hawkins.

Then Prentice, and Rib Lake.

The ending was at the VFW post in Medford with fire department escorts on to the town. Even the locals are becoming a part of the thing.

2008 – Neillsville

A cold morning and a late season snow squall tat ended early but we still had 150 determined and committed riders show up for yet another ride. A stop at the High Ground before our last stop at the Neillsville American Legion was a very powerful reminder what this event is all about and how a little cold weather is no comparison to what other suffered for our Freedom.