Next March, Tracy Sefcik and Martin Conlon with Cross Country Cycle 4 Vets will embark on a 3,142-mile journey across the United States from San Diego, California, to St. Augustine, Florida.
Their goal is to raise $25,000 for the Gary Sinise Foundation, an organization that works to honor defenders, veterans, first responders and their families by creating and supporting unique programs designed to entertain, educate, inspire, strengthen and build communities.
“The Gary Sinise Foundation is incredibly grateful for the independently organized campaigns organized by the community, including those who have served our country, in order help so many in need, ”Judith Otter, Executive Director of the Gary Sinise Foundation, told American Military News.
The pair is starting their journey on the flight deck of the USS Midway on March 2, 2018.
Then, they will be guided through the streets of San Diego by the Memorial Truck and the San Diego Police Historical Association, where they will dip their bike tires at the Ocean Beach Park.
They will then depart on their cross-country journey as they follow the Southern Tier maps that are published by the Adventure Cycling Association.
They plan to wrap up on May 6, 2018, in St. Augustine, Florida, and will be guided in by the Amvets Freedom Riders to end the journey at St. Augustine Beach.
“Martin and I started biking a few years back […] We will be making this journey together and will face many challenges while riding across from San Diego to St. Augustine,” Sefcik wrote on the organization’s website.
Cross Country Cycle 4 Vets (Website)
“I am no longer in the Navy uniform. However, I still want to express my support for my fellow veterans and military today. This is my way of giving back. Many of us feel the same way: ‘Once you are in uniform, you are always in uniform, you take that oath for life.’ I would do it all over again if I had to with no hesitation,” Sefcik told American Military News. “Both myself and Martin felt we needed to do something to support our veterans. We wanted to find any way to help them with the challenges that some undoubtedly face today. This is our way of shining a light, and letting them know that they are appreciated for all they do for us… For their sacrifices and unwavering commitment to our Nation.”
Cross Country Cycle 4 Vets (Facebook)
To date, Cross Country Cycle 4 Vets has raised $8,926 in donations.
