Freedom Ride returns to Tyrone with nearly 500 riders

TYRONE, Pa. (WTAJ) – Freedom Ride USA returned to Tyrone on Thursday, this time with more participants than ever.

The Freedom Ride is an annual event meant to raise money for veterans on Independence Day.

“It’s just the time to celebrate our country and celebrate the people who served to help protect it,” Sean Riggle, board member at Freedom Ride USA, said.

The money goes towards funding trips for veterans, medical visits and new things like a victory garden. Everyone could join in on helping them out.

“Kids can enjoy it and families can enjoy it,” Chuck Diehl, one of the riders, said. “The more it turns out, the better it is for the benefit.”

Riggle said that in 2011 the event had 20 people on bikes, which has now grown to about 500 riders during 2024’s event. The support of the community is what helps to make the event special in their eyes.

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“It benefits veterans, which we all should do our part to help veterans because they’ve done as much as they can to help our country,” Riggle added.

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