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BBR25 is my 7th ride that for which I have raised funds. Due to my passport error, it is my 6th actual ride with the team in Europe. I did ride in 2024, but I was in Quebec & Ontario not Normandy. It was really good to be back with all my BBR friends visiting our soldiers who rest in Europe this past September (2025).

After touring Amsterdam & Rotterdam, we met up with the rest of our team and BBR riders in Bergen Op Zoom to begin the ride. Many of the riders I knew from others years and many are first riders. It is nice blend of Veterans, First Responders, friends, family and supporters. Long distance cycling is cathartic and every one of us experienced change by riding and supporting each other.

Part of our journey involves visiting the graves of people who matter to use and our supporters. It was a privilege to visit with Ralph’s Uncle who rests at Groesbeek Commonwealth Graveyard, The Netherlands, Private G.R. Buck (d. June 26, 1945 – age 26). We leave small tokens that matter to the family at home. Year after year others do the same. It warms my heart to know how our Soldiers are remembered.

Often while we do our ride or walk around the local market squares, but never as often as in The Netherlands, we are stopped by local people who ask questions, or tell us their stories of how the war impacted their lives.

On our way to dinner, Drew and I were stopped by a local bike shop owner. He wanted a photo of our jackets and to tell us how important Canada is to The Netherlands. He is a young man, but he continues to appreciate what our Soldiers sacrificed for his country. He even took the time to email Drew and I the photo and invited us on rides with his cycling friends if we are ever back in Deventer.

Oosterbeek Church Bible – Operation Market Garden (Near Arnhem). The church bible is still on the pulpit with the hole from a German bullet.

Every year there are more women on the ride. Here we all are honouring the grave of a Nurse who rests in Holden Cemetery.

Why do I ride every year? I ride because I know personally the toll that Occupational Stress Injuries has on the service member and also their families. I have lived it personally and I have seen it through my family history.

My friends, who are modern day Veterans carry hidden wounded. We don’t know how heavy they are, or if someday the burden will get too much to bear. These rides are therapeutic to those who ride and they raise funds for those who don’t but who need to heal. Wounded Warriors Canada provides programs for the wounded and their families, free of charge.

I thank you for continuing to support those who support you.

Holden Commonwealth Cemetery our Soldiers honoured by Dutch children & their families every Christmas.

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