Harley-Davidson, the Choice for American Heroes
U.S. Military veterans share why they only ride bikes from H-D.
When it comes to our active and retired military veterans, the majority of these brave individuals that selflessly put their lives on the line choose to ride Harleys. And Harley-Davidson and the H.O.G. community have been longtime supporters of our troops and military members, often hosting bike giveaways and other esteemable acts to honor these heroes. Now, Connecting Vets has a great story on 11 veterans that provides an inside look into why they choose to get on motorcycles from Harley-Davidson. Even better, the story was written by a Harley-riding veteran, too, Eric Dehm.
Whether it’s a touching story that deals with seeing a parent ride a Harley at a young age or the alluring design behind the motorcycle manufacturer’s designs, all of these vets have an amazing story. But these are the ones that stuck out to us…
Military vet Nichole Alred, who has been riding since 2008, got onto a Harley-Davidson to help support the husband of a fallen soldier. “One of my husband’s soldiers had passed — shot and killed by a sniper in Iraq,” said Alred. “…I then stumbled upon the Patriot Guard Riders.”
“I wanted to be a part of it,” she continues, “so I encouraged my husband to get a motorcycle. We rode with the Patriot Guard, and after two years of riding b–h, I wanted my own. …It’s heavy, it’s dependable and it’s an American icon.”
Marine Corps vet and pro MMA fighter Shane Kruchten (pictured right) echoes Alred’s sentiments: “I chose Harley and stand by Harley-Davidson because it is America. To me it symbolizes the American Dream and passion to be better and live free at all times. Being born in Milwaukee probably helps that as well, but I always have been, and will be, Harley-Davidson! I’ve never ridden anything else, never owned anything else and I’m OK with that. I’d rather push my Harley than ride a foreign bike.”
‘I chose Harley and stand by Harley-Davidson because it is America. To me it symbolizes the American Dream and passion to be better and live free at all times.’
Another story that stuck with us came from Ray Buckley, who hit the nail on the head when he mentioned that he uses his motorcycle to take his mind off of things. “I had a couple of sport bikes, I enjoyed riding but wasn’t 100% satisfied, so I got a used ’06 Deuce,” said Buckley. “My wife and I took it on our first date.”
While Buckley’s bike has a lot of history, which includes his mechanic and father, he really enjoys the freedom the Harley gives him. “Owning and riding a Harley for me is about more than the bike,” said Buckley. “It’s the whole experience of making memories. Riding is a stress reliever for me these days, it’s a way to clear my head and squeeze a little bit of freedom into my hectic schedule.”
Harley-Davidsons, as Connecting Vets’ story conveys, are more than just hunks of metal and rubber. Harleys help veterans connect with their loved ones, showcase their pride for their country, and them relieve some stress. For Harley fans that want to read all of the vets’ incredible stories, head over to Connecting Vets’ article.
Photos: Connecting Vets
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