Veterans honored as bikers riding across America stop in Utah

Wendover, Utah – An additional cross-country bike tour in honor of veterans is about to begin, this time organized by the National Veterans Awareness Organization.

It was early May when NVAO Utah chapter organizer Jayson Stephenson greeted the cross-country bikers upon their arrival in Utah.

“We educate about veterans, educating about the military, we stop at schools, VFWs, posts. We pay our respects to veterans,” Stephenson said.

The chapter immediately sprung into gear to assist the cyclists once they reached the Utah side of Wendover.

“Utah is the only state in the nation that actually escorts from state line to state line for this ride,” Stephenson said.

The bikers are going to have lunch with the veterans at the Utah VA hospital before they leave Utah.

“They don’t get visitors all the time. We want to make sure they are recognized and they know we still love them and care about them,” Stephenson said.

A full stop wouldn’t be complete without bag pipers, delicious food, and an abundance of affection for the veterans.

The NVAO has sent Jeff Brewster on four rides.

“I work at the VA hospital, I’ve been up at the VA hospital for 19 years. We are big supporters of the vets. Jayson got me involved four years ago and I won’t miss it,” Brewster said.

As they continue the 19-day journey from California to Arlington National Cemetery in Virginia, the riders will need the hearty lunch that is supplied.

Once Stephenson and the other cyclists reach the cemetery, they pay their respects.

Because of the importance of financial support for these rides, Spencer Carver of Mountain America Credit Union became engaged.

Carver thanked Stephenson for his work in the NVAO and then, on behalf of KUTV and Mountain America Credit Union, presented Stephenson with a $500 check.

“Thank you for what you do. . . . we want to give you a little gift to help you along the ride. We’ll give that to you and appreciate your sacrifice,” Carver said.

The NVAO Venmo account is @nvao-veterans if you would want to send a donation their way.

The NVAO was able to continue its mission of paying it forward with a $500 donation from Mountain America Credit Union.