On Saturday, August 16, 2025, The Highground welcomed 48 motorcycle riders for the 25th Annual Ride to Remember®.
Although stormy skies and intermittent downpours played a role in reducing overall attendance, the riders who did join made the day feel more like a heartfelt family reunion than a formal event. Some registered participants even parked their bikes at home and attended anyway, an inspiring show of dedication to the cause.
Despite the weather, the spirit of the event remained strong. The ceremony was moved inside the Welcome Center, where the resounding pledge of allegiance and national anthem gave attendees goosebumps.
Members of Rolling Thunder and other volunteers solemnly folded the American flag during the reading of the KIA (Killed in Action) names, while local students Josiah and Hannah Kayhart delivered echoing taps that reverberated throughout the building, bringing the ceremony to a powerful close.
The Ride to Remember continues to honor the courage and sacrifice of military service members, past and present, while raising vital funds for The Highground’s veteran-focused programs. These include three annual veterans retreats, a couple’s retreat, and monthly CAMO (Community and Military Outreach) workshops and presentations.
Though drenched by the downpour, two rides were carried out safely thanks to the leadership of Bill Flemal (VFW Riders District 7) and Chad Garcia (Combat Vets Motorcycle Association 45). Rider safety was ensured by the Neillsville Police Department, Clark County Sheriff’s Department, Neillsville Volunteer Fire Department, and Chippewa Falls Harley Davidson, whose intersection support and ongoing commitment to The Highground’s road events are deeply appreciated.
Due to the rainy weather, the Hillbilly Fever Band was unfortunately unable to set up and perform. However, Sue and Mary Kokosz stepped up in a big way, bringing energy and generosity to the day with 20 themed raffle baskets and two grand prize baskets.
Their efforts raised an impressive $1,133, all of which was donated to The Highground. “We do this for the veterans,” said Mary Kokosz. “It means a lot to have raised so much on such a rainy day!” In total, the Ride to Remember raised over $5,574 to support the organization’s mission.
The Highground is incredibly grateful to all who contributed, including the safety teams, ride leaders, volunteers, and every rider who joined together to honor the nation’s heroes. The Highground extends its deepest gratitude to the generous sponsors who made this year’s event possible.
Their support fuels the mission and ensures that veterans and their families continue to receive the care, connection and recognition they deserve:
- FW Riders District 7,
- Department of VFW Riders WI,
- CVMA 45,
- Rolling Thunder Inc WI Chapter 2,
- Rolling Thunder Inc WI Chapter 3,
- Rolling Thunder Inc WI Chapter 5,
- Hillbilly Fever Band,
- Neillsville Police Dept,
- Neillsville Volunteer Fire Dept.,
- Clark County Sherriff Dept.,
- CycleFish,
- Dairyland Originals Women on Wheels,
- Sue and Mary Kokosz (the Basket Babes),
- Woodfield Inn and Suites,
- Lumberyard Bar and Grill,
- Whitmore Ace Hardware,
- Hansen’s IGA,
- Central Wisconsin Broadcasting,
- WWIS Radio,
- Bonnie Henchen, and Ruth Novak.
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