Wounded Warrior Projects: The Soldier Ride
This September 25 and 26, the Soldier Ride rolled into town for a great weekend. The weekend started off Friday night at the Loveless Cafe with the Southern Shindig being hosted by the most recognized voice in country music, Bob Kingsley. The Loveless prepared a fabulous dinner and the Barn was a great place for an evening of fun, food and music. Congresswoman Marsha Blackburn was there to greet the warriors. Warrior/musician Sal Gonzolas performed and then country superstar Trace Adkins took to the stage. The Southern Shindig was sponsored by Actus Lend Lease.
The ride was held in the memory of MSG James "Tre" Ponder. Ponder, a former Franklin resident, was killed in action June 2005. His family was on hand Friday night and Saturday to welcome and encourage the riders.
The ride started Saturday morning at Edwin Warner Park. There was great support from the Nashville community as the Police departments, Fire departments, the Patriot Guard, school groups and the Franklin High School ROTC unit turned out to help. Among the riders were groups from many area bike clubs. All the riders followed behind the wounded soldiers. At the half way water break at Jim Warren Park, some riders took off on a 50 mile route that went through Leipers Fork. Most inspiring were the many people who turned out with signs and flags along the route on Del Rio Pike and Old Natchez Trace, and the families at the soccer fields who stayed to wave flags and cheer our riders on. Lonnie White brought his barbeque rig and prepared a fabulous picnic spread for all. Many thanks to all the parents who helped.
Tre Ponders friends and supporters formed "Team Tre"
