WASHINGTON, D.C. – U.S. Senator Richard Burr (R-North Carolina) today joined thirty veterans and active duty servicemembers of the Iraq and Afghanistan wars – including four from North Carolina - on the grounds of the U.S. Capitol building for the conclusion of the DC Wounded Warriors Soldier Ride.  The Soldier Ride is a program sponsored by the Wounded Warrior Project that provides wounded Soldiers with rehabilitative opportunities and raises public awareness about those servicemen and women who have been severely injured during wartime.

“I was inspired today to be in the company of veterans who have such an intense commitment and spirit. The Soldier Ride is a wonderful symbol of individuals who are confronting the wounds and pain of their experiences to overcome adversity.  They are an inspiration to the rest of us,” Senator Burr said.

The ride began at the White House and continued through Arlington Cemetery before ending at the U.S. Capitol.  All participants with a disability or missing a limb or limbs are provided the adaptive equipment they need to cycle.  Four North Carolina veterans and active duty servicemen, Eric Edmundson of New Bern, Nathan Green of Lexington, Stephen Towery of Fayetteville, and Ted Wade of Chapel Hill, participated in today’s Solider Ride.

The Wounded Warrior Project is a non-profit organization whose mission is to honor and empower wounded warriors.  In addition to offer rehabilitative services like the Soldier Ride, it also provides wounded warriors with services and benefits such as career counseling, advocacy initiatives and combat stress seminars to aid in the transition from hospital bed to an independent, productive life.