The fourth annual Freedom Ride will take place on Saturday, June 8, beginning at 10:00 from the American Legion Post 59 at 803 N. Page Street in Stoughton. Riders can register and begin the ride anytime between 10:00 am and 11:30 am.
This year, the route of travel for the approximately 100-mile trip will have stops at Pine Bluff, Blanchardville, Belleville, and conclude at the VFW Post 328 in Stoughton, where, at 4:30 pm, the riders will receive a police escort through downtown Stoughton back to the American Legion.
About the Freedom Ride
The annual Freedom Ride began in 2016 with about 100 people participating. The founders and current leaders are Rick and Deanna (Dee) Gullickson and Dan and Tami Quam Gallagher. Planning for the ride begins in December and meetings are held monthly. According to Rick, "Our initial goal was to help get the memorial built; now our goal is to help with the upkeep and maintenance.” There has been increased participation in the ride every year and this year Rick anticipates about 150 people.
Motorcycles, autos, trucks and antique cars can all participate in the ride, but Rick says about 85% of the units are cycles.
Each year, a different route is selected with scenic beauty and safety being two important factors in this decision. The day prior to the ride, Rick and Dan travel the route, putting up directional signs and sweeping off the loose gravel.
At the conclusion of the police escort to the Legion, participants are treated to a meal of brats, hot dogs, pulled pork, salad, chips and dessert. Members of the Sons of American Legion volunteer to do all the food prep and serving. There will also be a silent auction, raffles and a best poker hand with a $200 first prize.
In addition to the $20 per person entry fee, money is also raised through donations. Although most of the donations come from local organizations and individuals, the ride has state-wide support. Donations this year come from cities like Lake Geneva, Mercer, Milwaukee and Madison as well as towns surrounding Stoughton. All donations are given with the stipulation that the proceeds go directly to help maintain the Veterans Memorial.