Riding for Veterans

Hope you'll enjoyed Arm Forces Day.

These Motorcycle riders from across southern Middle Tennessee revved up their engines on Armed Forces Day and rode more than 60 miles for veterans in need for Saturday’s annual “The Ride for Life” benefit.

Hosted by Spring Hill’s chapter of the Baptist biker group FAITH Riders, proceeds from this year’s event will go to the veteran outreach organization Operation Stand Down Tennessee.

The riders make their home at First Baptist Church Spring Hill.

“We are just trying to be a blessing,” Local FAITH Riders Director Mike Welch said.

Although these riders may look tough with their big motorcycles, leather jackets and American flag bandanas, the riders certainly have equally large hearts, Welch said.

“There is a misconception about motorcycle riders,” Welch said. “These people ride these motorcycles and they have the biggest hearts around.”

J.C. Christian, one of the toughest-looking of the bunch, sporting a matching black leather vest and bandana, serves as the church’s pastor when he is not leading the convoy across rural Maury County.

“We wanted to something to honor our vets, so we are riding to raise money for them,” Christian said.

Raised by an Air Force father but unable to enlist due to medical issues, Christian said he has always had an appreciation for those who have served.

The pastor blessed several motorcycles, praying for a safe journey, before the group set out on its expedition.