To The Editor:

Being a non-veteran bicyclist, I was still overcome with gratitude and compassion, as I viewed the Wounded Warrior Cyclists begin their journey South to Key West. The heartfelt and respectful greeting given by those assembled at VFW Post 10211 in Key Largo, to these severely disabled veterans, brought tears to my eyes.

Dennis Ward and John Donnelly were honored with plaques, for their commitment to this rehabilitative project. Sheriff Ramsay’s deputies safely guided, protected and encouraged these riders throughout the day. State Law- Enforcement Officers assisted them in every way possible. Fire Departments & EMT’s from Key Largo, Tavernier and Islamorada prepared spectacular displays welcoming and honoring the Wounded Warriors. A ‘Fire and Rescue Truck’ from Marathon was on hand at VFW Post 10211, to insure emergent medical care for these gravely injured cyclists, while they were on the road.

The support team backing these combat wounded veterans during every aspect of their trek was phenomenal.

Principals Blake Fry and Lisa Taylor, along with their extraordinary students, teachers and staff; gave an enthusiastic and adoring greeting to the warriors, as they came to rest in front of Coral Shores High School. Plantation Key School children passionately rallied with their counterparts.

So much kindness and love were shared, with the many emotional exchanges between veteran and student. I’ve never witnessed such an enormous transference of energy. The students, teachers and citizens gathered in front of the school, surged forward intermingling and interacting with the cyclists. Excited hugs, handshakes, kisses and autographs characterized the happening on the road in front of the school. This mass of humanity, one wave of students after another, converging upon these men and women of the Purple Heart; continued for nearly 20 minutes.

All along the bike route, I was moved and inspired by the enormity of support directed by roadside citizens and children to the Wounded Warrior group as they road by.

I’m still processing the mind-blowing events of today. The respect, partnerships and beautiful sentiments coming out of this bike ride, can serve as an instructional instrument for our country and world at large.

Sincerely,
Harold Schulman
Key Largo, FL