By Dawn Burleigh

The Orange Leader

 

WEST ORANGE — Ricker Ledoux Sr., 70, will kick off a bike ride to honor and raise funds for Vietnam Veterans on Saturday and will ride for the next approximately 21 days.

Ledoux will leave at 7:30 a.m. Saturday, June 22 at the Old Community Bank in Deweyville and ride his bicycle to Dover, Delaware all to raise funds and awareness for Vietnam Veterans.

Ledoux understands the needs of his fellow brothers in arms as he too served in the war. He enlisted in 1968. He modestly said he received the standard medals.

“I served from 68-72,” Ledoux said. “My tour in Vietnam was from 69-71.”

Ledoux was a runner for many years before an industrial injury prevented him from the activity anymore.

“I use to ride a bike until I got a job which did not allow it in the time frame,” Ledoux said. “When I retired, I started riding again. It keeps me out of trouble… sometimes.” He smiled as he added the last word.

Depending upon the weather, Ledoux estimates he should be able to ride approximately 200 miles a day. He plotted the course along flatlands to aid in speed while creating a longer trip.

This is not his first long-distance trip. He rode to Minnesota last year.

Riding is something which he describes as keeping him healthy and enjoyable.

“I want to send him off with a big bang this year,” Patty, his wife said. “Last year, I sent him off from our front door while crying my eyes out.”

The shirts the crowd will be wearing read:

Ricker’s Bike Ride 2019 Orange to Dover Riding for a Cause Vietnam Veterans

The vinyl for the shirts was donated by Mellybeth Designs Vinyl Supply in Pinehurst. Mellybeth Designs is also one of the sponsors for the trip.

Ledoux will wear a shirt he said will be recognized by those in the military. As an alternate shirt, he will wear the shirt he wore on his last trip which includes Orange 112% on the back.

Ledoux is still seeking sponsors for the trip.

“If people donate, God bless you,” Ledoux said. “If not, God bless you too.”

Donations can be made by check payable to:

Ricker’s Bike Ride
Also thru PayPal 
All donations are tax deductible.
Mail donations to:

Ricker’s Bike Ride 
1015 Flint St
Orange, Texas 77630

Or call: 409-553-0333
To follow Ledoux on his journey visit the Facebook page: Ricker’s Bike Ride – 2019