Soldier Ride

Lindenhurst, NY — On Friday, July 19, 2024, the Town of Babylon, in partnership with the Wounded Warrior Project, proudly hosted the 17th Annual Babylon Soldier Ride. This inspiring event united hundreds of community participants and 40 wounded U.S. military veterans for a 25-mile journey from Babylon Town Hall to Overlook Beach.

The event kicked off with a heartfelt ceremony at 9:00 AM, where Town of Babylon Supervisor Rich Schaffer warmly welcomed the participants and acknowledged the significance of the event. "The Soldier Ride exemplifies our community's commitment to honoring and supporting our veterans. Each year, we come together to help these brave individuals find strength and healing through camaraderie and shared experience," Supervisor Schaffer remarked.

Councilman and Veterans Advisory Council Chair DuWayne Gregory emphasized, "This event is more than just a ride; it’s a celebration of resilience and community spirit. Our veterans deserve our unwavering support, and the Soldier Ride provides a platform for that."

Wounded Warrior Project CEO Walt Piatt addressed the crowd, noting the profound impact the ride has on the veterans and the community. Marine Veteran and Adaptive Sports Director Mike Owens shared his personal journey and the importance of events like the Soldier Ride in fostering recovery and empowerment for veterans. The ride concluded at Overlook Beach, where participants, veterans, their families, and friends gathered for a celebratory barbeque, honoring the warriors’ achievements and the community's collective effort in supporting veteran causes.

This year, the Babylon event successfully raised over $160,000, with donations still pouring in, surpassing the fundraising goal. The funds will benefit the Wounded Warrior Project and Paws of War, an organization dedicated to enhancing veterans' lives by rescuing and training service dogs. Over the past 17 years, the Town of Babylon has raised more than $1.5 million for the Wounded Warrior Project, showcasing a longstanding commitment to supporting veterans.