Elkhart bikers ride to honor fallen heroes, raising money for veteran tiny homes
SOUTH BEND, Ind. --- An Elkhart motorcycle club rode more than 70 miles on Sunday to honor fallen first responders and raise money for homeless veterans.
The Blue Knights Law Enforcement Motorcycle Club and hundreds of community supporters took part in the 20th anniversary of an event which remembers fallen veterans and first responders.
“It means a lot not only to us but to everybody who rides on the ride,” said Jim Ballard, president of the motorcycle club.
Ballard said the event usually takes place during September, because of weather conditions, the group moved it to October. Ballard said some were upset, but it did not slow them down.
The group started in Elkhart at the Harley Davidson shop on Bristol Street. They went from Elkhart to Wakarusa, through Nappanee into Goshen, and past Middlebury to Bristol back to Elkhart.
In Goshen, the group stopped for a memorial Ballard said is the true reason for the event.
“Personally, my brother was in the military,” said Matt Leonard, who was at the event. “I’m sure it touches everyone differently, for me, it’s something you maybe don’t think about until it actually hits a bit closer to home.”
Ballard said he couldn’t reveal the amount of money raised. He said the money will help build tiny homes for homeless veterans in Elkhart.
“We know it’s going to take more than the funds we’ve raised this year,” he said. “If anybody would like to help support our cause get ahold of me.”
Click here to help donate to the Blue Knight’s cause.